Abstract
Grafting carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is one of the most commonly used methods for modifying carbon fiber surface, during which complex device is usually needed and the growth of CNTs is difficult to control. Herein, we provide an implementable and continuous chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process, by which the novel multiscale reinforcement of carbon nanotube (CNT)-grafted carbon fiber is prepared. After exploring the effects of the moving speed and growth atmosphere on the morphology and mechanical properties of carbon nanotubes/carbon fiber (CNTs/CF) reinforcement, the optimal CVD process conditions are determined. The results show that low moving speeds of carbon fibers passing through the reactor can prolong the growth time of CNTs, increasing the thickness and density of the CNTs layer. When the moving speed is 3 cm/min or 4 cm/min, the surface graphitization degree and tensile strength of CNTs/CF almost simultaneously reach the highest value. It is also found that H2 in the growth atmosphere can inhibit the cracking of C2H2 and has a certain effect on prolonging the life of the catalyst. Meanwhile, the graphitization degree is promoted gradually with the increase in H2 flow rate from 0 to 0.9 L/min, which is beneficial to CNTs/CF tensile properties.
Highlights
Carbon fiber has a series of excellent features such as high modulus, high strength, low density, high temperature resistance, and remarkable electrical conductivity
In order to ensure the tensile strength of carbon fibers, surface defects should be avoided as much as possible, so the surface of carbon fibers is smooth, and the specific surface area is not large
Carbon fibers cannot be firmly compounded with the matrix material, which greatly reduces the properties of the composites
Summary
Carbon fiber has a series of excellent features such as high modulus, high strength, low density, high temperature resistance, and remarkable electrical conductivity It is often chosen as a reinforcing material to composite with a resin matrix, widely used in aerospace, transportation, new energy, building facilities, medical equipment, and military fields [1,2,3]. In order to ensure the tensile strength of carbon fibers, surface defects should be avoided as much as possible, so the surface of carbon fibers is smooth, and the specific surface area is not large For these reasons, carbon fibers cannot be firmly compounded with the matrix material, which greatly reduces the properties of the composites. It is very important to modify the surface of carbon fiber to obtain proper surface roughness and activity
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