Manufacturing Scalable Carbon Nanotube-Silicone/Kevlar Fabrics

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Composite Materials

Background:

• Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) offer unique electrical and thermal properties.
• Kevlar materials provide exceptional strength and heat resistance.
• Hybrid composites aim to combine the advantages of different materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize novel carbon nanotube (CNT)-silicone/Kevlar hybrid composites.
• To evaluate the electrical, thermal, and flame resistance properties of the developed materials.
• To explore potential applications for these advanced hybrid composites.

Main Methods:

• Carbon nanotube (CNT) and silicone elastomer solutions were combined with Kevlar yarn, fabric, and veil.
• The resulting hybrid composites were subjected to Vertical Flame Test (ASTM D6413) and Forced Air Oven Test (NFPA 1971).
• Material synthesis focused on creating scalable composite sheets (2250 cm²).

Main Results:

• The CNT-silicone/Kevlar composites exhibited moderate electrical and thermal conductivity.
• A challenge identified was the weak interfacial bonding between the CNT-silicone matrix and Kevlar.
• All synthesized composites successfully passed stringent flame and heat resistance tests.

Conclusions:

• The developed CNT-silicone/Kevlar hybrid composites offer a combination of conductivity, strength, and flame/heat resistance.
• Potential applications include firefighter apparel, military equipment, smart structures, and flexible electronics.
• Further research is needed to improve CNT-silicone bonding to Kevlar for enhanced performance.