Enhanced electrical and mechanical properties of CFRP modified by SWCNT

Abstract

The hybrid CFRP/SWCNT composites with advanced mechanical and electrical properties were investigated in the paper. CFRPs has outstanding strength-to-density ratio which is one of the most important properties for aerospace engineering. However a lack of electrical and heat conductivity makes efficient lightning strike protection and thermal de-icing complicated. In this research electric conductivity of CFRP is increased by addition of single-wall carbon nanotubes. Measurements of electrical conductivity of modified composites as well as CNT-filled epoxy are performed showing good increase of conductive properties. Mechanical testing demonstrates unchanged tensile strength while a flexural strength increases, which is attributed to better interfacial shear properties of CFRP/SWCNT hybrid composites.