Evolution of carbon nano-tube dispersion in preparation of a fiber-reinforced epoxy-based composite: From a CNT masterbatch to a composite

M. A. Aravand, L. Gorbatikh, S. V. Lomov, I. Verpoest

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

4 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This work aims to offer an insight into the evolution of the CNT dispersion in preparation of a fiber-reinforced epoxy-based composite. This is done through a stepwise comparison of the dispersion qualities of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in two epoxy based nanocomposite systems. The MWCNTs used in the two nanocomposites, experienced different histories in terms of the storage time while they were stored in the form of concentrated CNT/Epoxy mixtures (masterbatches). The study revealed that the older version contains large and difficult to break nanotube agglomerates. This significantly affected the rheological properties of the masterbatch in a liquid state as well as the electrical properties and glass transition temperature (Tg) of a solid nanocomposite. It is also shown that such an effect is further extended to the final fibre-reinforced composite where positioning of CNTs around the fibres seems to be controlled by the agglomeration/dispersion quality of the nanotubes in the original masterbatch.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationECCM 2012 - Composites at Venice, Proceedings of the 15th European Conference on Composite Materials
PublisherEuropean Conference on Composite Materials, ECCM
ISBN (Print)9788888785332
Publication statusPublished - 01 Jan 2012
Externally publishedYes
Event15th European Conference on Composite Materials: Composites at Venice, ECCM 2012 - Venice, Italy
Duration: 24 Jun 201228 Jun 2012

Publication series

NameECCM 2012 - Composites at Venice, Proceedings of the 15th European Conference on Composite Materials

Conference

Conference15th European Conference on Composite Materials: Composites at Venice, ECCM 2012
Country/TerritoryItaly
CityVenice
Period24/06/201228/06/2012

Keywords

  • Agglomeration
  • Dispersion
  • Multiwall carbon nano-tube (MWCNT)

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Ceramics and Composites

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Evolution of carbon nano-tube dispersion in preparation of a fiber-reinforced epoxy-based composite: From a CNT masterbatch to a composite'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this