Multiscale interfacial enhancement of surface grown carbon nanotubes carbon fiber composites

This paper aims to explore the potential of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in enhancing the structural capability and multifunctionality of carbon fiber composites in aerospace applications, primarily by focusing on interfacial applications. The conventional method of dispersing CNTs in a matrix is not fully efficient in exploiting the mechanical and multifunctional performance of CNTs. Hence, the use of CNTs at the interface or as a coating on the surface of carbon fibers has been suggested as a means of achieving multifunctionality, in addition to enhanced mechanical performance. The paper presents an overview of the various processes for growing CNTs on carbon fiber surfaces and examines the effects of CNT geometry and growth parameters on the properties of grafted fibers and their composites. Furthermore, it discusses the potential improvements in thermal and electrical conductivity achievable by incorporating CNTs at the interface, as well as the benefits of using CNTs as a sizing layer for carbon fibers, including enhanced fracture toughness and resistance to delamination.Highlights Comprehensive study of interface engineering in carbon fibers and Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRPs) using carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Improved transverse mechanical properties and overall thermal and electrical properties. Multifunctional applications possible with the use of CNT. Both experimental and numerical studies reviewed.

Section: Experimental Techniquesmentioning

confidence: 99%

Interface engineering of carbon fiber composites using CNT: A review

Sahu,

Ponnusami,

Weimer

et al. 2023

“…One is electrochemical anodic oxidation, with CF as anode, graphite plate as cathode, ammonium hydrogen phosphate (NH 4 H 2 PO 4 ) and other salt solutions as electrolytes. 22,[30][31][32] This method has less damage to fiber strength and can process fibers in continuous batches. However, this method is only applicable to unidirectional fibers and has limitations for the treatment of twodimensional carbon fiber fabrics.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

One‐step in‐situ growth of CNTs on oxidized carbon fiber: Effects of catalyst concentration and growth time on mechanical properties of carbon fiber

Yao,

Zhang,

Xia

et al. 2024

Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method was performed to grow carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on oxidized carbon fiber (CF). First, CF was oxidized by a simple and gentle way to increase the number of active groups and the optimal treatment time was determined. Then, effects of catalyst concentration and growth time on morphologies and loading amount of CNTs, the properties of CF/CNTs reinforcements, and the interlayer properties of CF/CNTs composites were explored. When the catalyst concentration and growth time were controlled at a reasonable level, CNTs can be uniformly grown on the CF surface. The interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) was characterized and the fracture surfaces of CF/CNTs composites were observed. The results demonstrated that when the catalyst precursor was kept at 0.05 mol/L and the growth time was controlled at 10 min, CNTs had the best strength effect and the ILSS increased by 30.25% compared to that of composites without CNTs. The fracture surface showed that CNTs can penetrate the matrix at the interface and enhance the interface through mechanical interlocking effect. The CNTs‐induced interphase allows the stress inside the composites to propagate continuously between resin and fibers, thereby heightening the load carrying capacity.Highlights A simple and gentle way was performed to activate CF without strength reduction. The influence mechanism of various parameters was revealed in detail. The mechanism of CNTs enhancing the interface was revealed.

“…12 Li et al deposited carbon nanotubes on the fiber surfaces to improve the mechanical strength of composites. 13 Guo et al constructed MXene/SiO 2 threedimensional structures using a self-assembly strategy to enhance the interfacial properties of CF composites. 14 Compared with these nanomaterials, cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) exhibit high crystallinity, typically measuring less than 500 nm in length, 2-20 nm in width, and possessing a low aspect ratio, while maintaining a rigid structure.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…For example, Feng et al employed graphene oxide, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and polyamide to construct a multiscale “rigid‐flexible” structure with synergistic hierarchical reinforcement for significantly enhancing the mechanical properties of CF composites 12 . Li et al deposited carbon nanotubes on the fiber surfaces to improve the mechanical strength of composites 13 . Guo et al constructed MXene/SiO 2 three‐dimensional structures using a self‐assembly strategy to enhance the interfacial properties of CF composites 14 .…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Bio‐inspired metal ion coordination cross‐linking synergistic strategy to enhance the interfacial properties of carbon fiber composites

Quan,

Wu,

Zhang

et al. 2023

The application of carbon fiber (CF) in carbon fiber composites has faced limitations due to its surface chemical inertness. To overcome this challenge, this study draws inspiration from metal ion‐enhancing exquisite hierarchical and multiphase structures observed in biological materials. The research proposes a novel approach to enhance the interfacial bonding of CF/Epoxy (E‐51) composites by utilizing tannic acid (TA), carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), Fe3+ ions, and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). This approach aims to create hydrogen bonding and metal synergistic networks on the surface of CFs through metal ion (Mn+) coordination cross‐linking synergistic (MCCS) interactions. Implementing MCCS strategy resulted in significant improvements in the mechanical properties of the hybrid reinforcements compared to untreated CF composites. The flexural strength, flexural modulus, interlaminar shear strength, and interfacial shear strength experienced respective increase of 50.9%, 72.8% 59.4%, and 61.9%. Moreover, the damping properties of the composites exhibited significant improvements. These positive outcomes can be attributed to the formation of chelation and dense hydrogen bonding networks between TA, Fe3+, CNC, and PVA. Furthermore, CNC and PVA formed cross‐linked nanolayers that effectively deflected cracks and facilitated high energy consumption at the interface. This proposed approach provides a sustainable, environmentally friendly, and efficient method for surface modification in the preparation of high‐performance fiber composites.Highlights Metal ion (Mn+) coordination cross‐linking synergistic strategy is proposed. Tannins/Fe3+/CNCs/PVA form multiphase nanolayers. Metal ion coordination cross‐linking enhances delicate multiphase structures. The prepared carbon fiber composites exhibit excellent properties. The as‐prepared carbon fiber composite has promising applications.