Multifunctional properties of multi-wall carbon nanotubes/cyanate-ester nanocomposites and CFRPs

Abstract

The incorporation of multi-wall carbon nanotubes at weight fractions of 0.5% wt. and 1% wt. in a PRIMASET cyanate ester system (PT-30) was examined. The thermo-mechanical and electrical properties of the developed nanopolymers were investigated and were compared with the neat matrix properties. A preparation method was developed for the incorporation of the fillers in the resin system. The phenomenon of re-agglomeration of nanotubes took place in the first stages of curing schedule but nevertheless according to the SEM images a good dispersion was generally achieved. DSC, DMA, TGA and thermal conductivity tests were performed for the thermal characterization. For the electrical characterization, AC and DC measurements took place. No significant change in the glass transition temperature (Tg), thermal conductivity and mass loss values was observed in comparison with the neat resin systems. However, in both cases the improvement of electrical conductivity was about nine orders of magnitude, indicating that percolation had been achieved. The elastic modulus in bending was examined and a slight increase was observed in direct comparison with the neat resin. Finally, the developed doped nanopolymer was used as matrix for the CFRPs manufacturing. A full manufacturing protocol was developed in order to overcome the challenging issues concerning the cyanate esters' handling and manufacturing processes. Moreover AC and DC measurements were performed along with thermal conductivity measurements and TMA. The produced modified composites were tested for short beam strength.