Enhancing the Mechanical Performance of Fiber‐Reinforced Polymer Composites Using Carbon Nanotubes as an Effective Nano‐Phase Reinforcement

Abstract

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are an economical and multi‐functional nanofiller that can further elevate the versatile performance of fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP). The past two decades have seen significant progress in the design, fabrication, and characterization of CNTs modified FRPs (CNT‐FRPs). The introduction of CNTs has been proven to enhance the key mechanical properties of CNT‐FRPs and endow the composite with additional functional properties. In this review, the fabrication routes of CNT incorporation into FRPs are first discussed, and then the critical effects of CNTs on various mechanical properties of CNT‐FRPs are described. Next, as a complement to the experimental results, modeling studies on CNT‐FRPs are included to reveal the underlying structural effects, followed by a discussion on the reinforcement and toughening mechanisms of CNT‐FRPs. The intent of this review is to provide a comprehensive summary on CNT modified FRP composites, and to shed light on the future research and development of CNT modified composites.

Effect of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes on the Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Curauá Natural-Fiber-Reinforced Composites

“…[35] observed that carbon nanotubes exhibit robust adhesion to fiber surfaces and can penetrate the interstitial spaces between the fibrils within the fibers. Additionally, the interaction between fibers and nanotubes is reinforced by Van der Waals forces and the expansion effect, as highlighted in previous research [34]. It can be seen that the (curauá + MWCNT) + resin composites presented an increase of approx.…”

Screw Extrusion as a Scalable Technology for Manufacturing Carbon Nanotube-Filled Polylactide Composites

“…CNTs have excellent mechanical properties. Tensile strength reaching values between 25-66 GPa [23,24] and a Young's modulus greater than 1 TPa [25,26]. The excellent mechanical properties of the carbon nanofiller are responsible for the increased strength of PLA composites with carbon nanotubes [27].…”

Phase separation patterned films of natural materials: Preparation of mixed monolayers of nanocellulose integrates and organo‐modified nanoclays

“…Additionally, nanoclay is commonly used as a filler in polymer composite materials 19 and can improve the mechanical properties of polymers with only a small amount of addition. 20 Recently, various treatment techniques have been explored, such as improving the filtration rate of bentonite suspensions 21 and its effect as a coagulant. 22 Nanoclays such as montmorillonite and bentonite are typically hydrophilic, hence surface treatment 23 is required for the material to not spontaneously wet if placed at the air/water interface.…”

“…However, many natural clays have high aspect ratio 18 with a thickness of 1 nm and a width reaching the micron level, enable wide areal coverage with a small amount when used as a thin film. Additionally, nanoclay is commonly used as a filler in polymer composite materials 19 and can improve the mechanical properties of polymers with only a small amount of addition 20 . Recently, various treatment techniques have been explored, such as improving the filtration rate of bentonite suspensions 21 and its effect as a coagulant 22 …”