Significantly Strengthening Epoxy by Incorporating Carbon Nanotubes/Graphitic Carbon Nitride Hybrid Nanofillers

Abstract

AbstractNovel hybrid nanofillers consist of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) are prepared for the enhanced mechanical properties of epoxy by improving the dispersion of CNTs. 2D planar structure, large surface area, and plentiful of surface reactive groups of g‐C3N4 efficiently resist the microcrack propagation, impede the thermal transfer, and provide chemical bonding with epoxy chains. The well‐dispersed CNTs by anchoring on g‐C3N4 surface promotes the efficient transfers of stress, and supply the stronger mechanical interlocking for interfacial bonding. The significantly enhanced mechanical properties of epoxy containing hybrid nanofillers are based on the synergistic effects between CNTs and g‐C3N4. Compared with neat epoxy, the tensile strength, tensile modulus, and storage modulus of epoxy containing 0.5 wt% hybrid nanofillers (CNTs: g‐C3N4 = 1: 9, w/w) below glass transition temperature (Tg) are increased by 37.65%, 29.36%, and 32.92%, respectively. Meanwhile, the Tg, onset decomposition temperature and char residue are also obviously raised.