Carbon Nanofiber Treatment Effects On Composite Properties

摘要

Carbon nanofibers (CNF) are vapor grown carbon fibers grown catalytically from gaseous hydrocarbons using metallic catalyst particles. While this type of carbon fiber has been known for many years, only recently have composite properties been studied. Rules for composite synthesis teach that composite properties depend on several key parameters, including fiber-matrix interphase and fiber aspect ratio. Good adhesion between these fibers and matrix resins is essential for the performance of CNF based composites, so the mechanical properties of composites are strongly influenced by fiber surface morphology and chemistry. This work examines the fiber-matrix adhesion problem as influenced by CNF fiber surface area and surface energy, and the impact of aspect ratio on composite electrical properties.