Enhancing the Mechanical and Fracture Properties of Nanocomposites Using Carbon Nanotubes

Recent technological advances in the nanotechnology field have permitted the design of polymeric thin films and polymer-based nanocomposites for energy storage [1], high-k dielectrics [2], light-emitting diodes [3], actuators [4], sensors [5], among many others. While these thin films have been tailored to exhibit unique optical, electrical, and electromechanical properties, enhancements in mechanical performance can improve their robustness and durability for use in complex and harsh operating environments. In fact, many researchers have sought to take advantage of the impressive properties (i.e., strength and stiffness) of carbon nanotubes (CNT) [6] to enhance the mechanical attributes of these materials. A recent review conducted by Coleman, et al. [7] has summarized efforts to incorporate carbon nanotubes within composites fabricated via epoxysetting, thermosets, melts, in situ polymerization, among many others. In general, the bulk composite stiffness, strength, and hardness have been found to increase in tandem with increasing carbon nanotube weight content [7].