Sonication-induced effects on carbon nanofibres in composite materials

Controlling carbon nanofibres morphology for improved composite reinforcement

Carbon nanofibres were grown at low temperatures on a novel fibre catalyst, palladium particles, using a novel method, growth in fuel rich combustion conditions. The growth of carbon filaments by this process was found to be remarkably rapid. Preliminary analysis of how changes in operating parameters, for example gas flow rate and reactant ratio, showed that fibre diameter and other factors su...

Dispersion of Carbon Nanotubes: Mixing, Sonication, Stabilization, and Composite Properties

Advances in functionality and reliability of carbon nanotube (CNT) composite materials require careful formulation of processing methods to ultimately realize the desired properties. To date, controlled dispersion of CNTs in a solution or a composite matrix remains a challenge, due to the strong van der Waals binding energies associated with the CNT aggregates. There is also insufficiently defi...

Polymer Composite Nanofibres

It is known that carbon nanotubes have impressive mechanical properties and it is thought that one of the best ways to realize them is to incorporate nanotubes into composites. The highest levels of stiffness and strength are obtained for composites with the reinforcing fibers aligned in one direction. It has also been recognized that for any nanocomposite to realize its full potential in terms...

Carbon Nanotube Enhanced Composite Materials

Non covalent functionalization by π stacking was accomplished by treating multi walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) through the use of Kentera, a conjugate rigid rod polymer. The functionalized MWNTs were then introduced into the epoxy resins through a combination of shear and elongation forces. The resulting epoxy resin (containing MWNTs) was then impregnated with carbon fiber under hot-melt condi...

Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Alumina Composite Materials