Structure and properties of multiwalled carbon nanotubes/cyanate ester composites

Two types of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MW‐CNTs) with different structure and morphology were used to fabricate cyanate ester (CE) matrix composites. Mechanical, thermal, and transmission electron microscopy tests were performed to evaluate the different effects of the two types of MW‐CNTs on the structure and properties of MW‐CNT/CE composites. Results showed that the bundled MW‐CNTs were easier to be dispersed in CE matrix than single MW‐CNTs, and could improve the toughness and stiffness of CE material more significantly. Functionalization of the two types of MW‐CNTs, which was achieved by grafting triethylenetetramine groups onto the surface of MW‐CNTs, was helpful in improving the dispersion of the MW‐CNTs in CE, and thus in fabricating MW‐CNT/CE composites with improved mechanical and thermal properties. POLYM. ENG. SCI. 46:670–679, 2006.