A facile method for preparing CNT-grafted carbon fibers and improved tensile strength of their composites. (February 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lee, Geunsung; Ko, Kwang Duk; Yu, Young Chang; Lee, Jinyong; Yu, Woong-Ryeol; Youk, Ji Ho
• Is Part Of: Composites. Volume 69(2015)
• Page Start: 132
• Page End: 138
• Publication Date: 2015-02
• Subjects: A. Carbon fibers -- A. Nano-structures -- B. Mechanical properties -- B. Fiber/matrix bond; Composite materials -- Periodicals; Manufacturing processes -- Periodicals; Composite materials; Manufacturing processes; Periodicals; 620.11805
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compositesa.2014.11.015
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-835X

Abstract

Abstract: Carbon nanotube (CNT)-grafted carbon fibers (CFs) have emerged as new reinforcements for improving the mechanical properties of CF-reinforced composites but such enhancement in macroscale composites has not been realized. This paper reports a facile method for preparing CNT-grafted CFs and improving the tensile strength of their composites. A CNT/polyacrylonitrile solution was sprayed onto the surface of the CF woven fabrics, and the CNTs were grafted by a thermal treatment at 300 °C. CNT-grafted CF composites were fabricated using the CNT-grafted CF woven fabrics using a vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding process with epoxy resin. The CNT-grafted CF composite exhibited 22% enhancement in the tensile strength compared to that of the pristine CF composite. Fracture surfaces of the CNT-grafted CF composites showed that the grafted CNTs obstructed the propagation of micro-cracks and micro-delamination around the CFs and also yarn boundaries, resulting in improved tensile strength of CNT-grafted CF composites.