Synthesis of High-Performance Nanocomposites Using Innovative Carbon Nanotube Infusion Techniques

Carbon-based nanomaterials (carbon nanotubes, graphene, fullerenes, nanodiamonds, quantum dots, etc.) have excellent chemical, electrical, thermal, optical, and mechanical properties. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) must be uniformly dispersed throughout the matrix to maximize their synergistic effects and improve the properties of composites. The clustering of CNTs causes poor physical and mechanical properties in nanocomposites. CNT is an excellent filler material in carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) for enhancing conductive properties of CFRP. Performance enhancement of CFRP depends upon the optimized nanofiller content and extent of its uniform distribution in composites. Selection of appropriate CNT distribution techniques plays an important role in the synthesis of nanocomposites. Current work emphasizes on comparison of different innovative CNT embedment methods (hand layup, spray method, and spray-vacuum-assisted infusion) for synthesis of nanocomposites in terms of ease of manufacturing. The impact of CNT embedment techniques on electrical and thermomechanical properties of CNT-CFRP nanocomposites is also compared in this research article, which ultimately provides guidelines for appropriate CNT embedment methods selection.