Epoxy matrix composites reinforced with purified carbon nanotubes for thermal management applications

Abstract

The role of carbon nanotube purification treatment as a means to improve the thermal properties of polymer matrix composites was investigated. Particular emphasis was placed on clarifying the processing‐property relationship in polymer composites for thermal management applications. The results indicated that purification treatment is critical to the thermal properties of derived polymer composites. Purification treatment can yield a twofold increase in composite thermal conductivity because of improved effectiveness in interfacial interaction and increased chemical purity of the filler. However, there is a trade‐off between the benefits and disadvantages associated with purification treatment, particularly when thermal and electrical properties are both concerned. Purification treatment gives rise to a sharp decrease in composite electrical conductivity by at least two orders of magnitude because of the lack of an effective percolating network. The effect of purification treatment on composite electrical properties is more significant than on its thermal properties.