Surface modification of continuous fibers with carbon nanostructures to get self-sensing capabilities

The use of carbon nanostructures to create electrically conductive networks in continuous fiber reinforced composites has been explored through the modification of the fibers. This alternative tries to avoid problems presented in most studied approach which consists of nanostructures addition in the matrix. Two alternative methods to CVD have been studied: electrophoretical deposition and nanoreinforced sizing. Both methods have resulted interesting as they allow obtaining fibers properly coated with the nanostructures. Morphology of the coatings changes as the processing parameters and type of nanoparticle do. Electrical conductivity has been modified obtaining carbon fibers with increased electrical conductivity when GNPs are deposited onto them. Finally, tensile testing of fabric stripes has been carried out in order to evaluate the influence of nanostructures presence on the self-sensing capability.