In this paper, the mechanical properties of Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and Boron Nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) are studied systematically by using molecular dynamics simulations. CNTs are considered semi-metallic, whereas the BNNTs, of the large band gap, are considered to be insulators, regarding the difference in the electrical properties of CNTs and BNNTs; comparing the mechanical properties of both nanotubes offers great scientific significance for their prospective applications. The simulations were carried out with the help of a Large-scale atomic/molecular massively parallel simulator (LAMMPS) and were based on the Airebo and Tersoffs force fields for C-C interaction in CNTs and B-N interaction in BNNTs, respectively. Failure behavior of armchair and zigzag CNTs and BNNTs under tensile and compressive loading has been predicted and observed that for both the nanotubes the armchair nanotubes showed higher tensile and compressive strength as compared to zigzag nanotubes. The maximum tensile and compressive strength for CNTs is 205 GPa and 35.62 GPa respectively and for BNNTs are 159 GPa and 24.81 GPa respectively. CNTs are identified as axially stronger and stiffer than BNNTs for the same diameter under identical loading conditions.

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Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) possess superior mechanical properties in addition to other functional features. The last decade has seen rapid growth in the usage of CNTs in polymer matrix composites. This has led to the development of novel dispersion and functionalization techniques. Though the CNTs exhibit excellent properties, their use in commercial applications has been restricted by the problem of dispersion in polymers. Perfect bonding of CNTs and polymer interphase with uniform distribution of CNTs are required for fully utilizing the reinforcement effect of the CNTs. In this review, the techniques and principles of CNT dispersion and functionalization/coating have been discussed in depth. The readers will be able to further their understanding of the field of CNT-reinforced polymer composites. Functionalization of CNTs and their dispersion effects are highlighted for polymer-based composites to observe the changes that occur in their mechanical behavior. The issues that require further work include the need to develop the tools and techniques to analyze the extent of dispersion or cluster of CNTs in a matrix of polymer, the need to optimize the process variables, and the need to resolve the inconsistency among the studies involving functionalization of CNTs. Comprehensive studies are needed to determine the association between different variables, such as surface treatment, degree of functionality, conditions of processing, and thermal, mechanical, optical, and electrical properties.

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