High-Strength Epoxy Nanocomposites Reinforced with Photochemically Treated CNTs

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Surface Chemistry

Background:

• Carbon nanotube (CNT)/epoxy nanocomposites offer advanced material properties.
• Effective interfacial bonding between CNTs and epoxy matrix is crucial for performance.
• Surface modification of CNTs is key to achieving enhanced mechanical properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the photochemical surface modification of CNTs using VUV-excimer lamps.
• To evaluate the impact of this modification on the interfacial properties and mechanical performance of CNT/epoxy nanocomposites.

Main Methods:

• Photochemical surface modification of CNTs via vacuum ultraviolet (VUV)-excimer lamp irradiation.
• Characterization of surface functional groups and bonding states on irradiated CNTs.
• Preparation and mechanical testing (tensile strength, elastic modulus) of CNT/epoxy nanocomposites.

Main Results:

• VUV-excimer irradiation increased oxygen functional groups and altered bonding states on CNT surfaces.
• Improved epoxy infiltration and strong chemical bonding between CNTs and epoxy matrix were observed.
• A 30-minute irradiation (R30) resulted in a 30% increase in tensile strength and a 68% increase in elastic modulus compared to pristine CNTs.

Conclusions:

• VUV-excimer irradiation is an effective method for surface modification and functionalization of CNTs.
• This surface treatment significantly enhances the mechanical properties of CNT/epoxy nanocomposites.
• The modified CNTs exhibit improved interfacial adhesion and load transfer within the epoxy matrix.