Multiscale Hybrid Micro‐Nanocomposites Based on Carbon Nanotubes and Carbon Fibers

Abstract

Amino‐modified double wall carbon nanotube (DWCNT‐NH2)/carbon fiber (CF)/epoxy hybrid micro‐nanocomposite laminates were prepared by a resin infusion technique. DWCNT‐NH2/epoxy nanocomposites and carbon fiber/epoxy microcomposites were made for comparison. Morphological analysis of the hybrid composites was performed using field emission scanning electron microscope. A good dispersion at low loadings of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in epoxy matrix was achieved by a bath ultrasonication method. Mechanical characterization of the hybrid micro‐nanocomposites manufactured by a resin infusion process included three‐point bending, mode I interlaminar toughness, dynamic mechanical analysis, and drop‐weight impact testing. The addition of small amounts of CNTs (0.025, 0.05, and 0.1 wt%) to epoxy resins for the fabrication of multiscale carbon fiber composites resulted in a maximum enhancement in flexural modulus by 35%, a 5% improvement in flexural strength, a 6% improvement in absorbed impact energy, and 23% decrease in the mode I interlaminar toughness. Hybridization of carbon fiber‐reinforced epoxy using CNTs resulted in a reduction in Tg and dampening characteristics, presumably as a result of the presence of micron‐sized agglomerates.