Leveraging Nucleated Graphitization for Super-Strong and Deformation Sensing Hybrid Nanomaterials
Abstract
Our overarching goal in this project has been to develop microstructural design and scalable processing capabilities of carbon nanomaterials with unprecedented mechanical strength, surpassing carbon fibers, and tailorable electromechanical coupling. The focus was on carbon nanofibers (CNFs). To achieve the goal, we have accomplished the following as discussed in section 4.In section 4.1, we performed a systematic study on mechanics of CNFs in relation to their microstructure. The CNFs were fabricated via pyrolysis of polymeric nanofibers. In order to develop super-strong and super-tough one-dimensional nanomaterials, processing steps were aimed at reducing defects, e.g., poor graphitic alignment. The degree of graphitization was controlled to benefit from strong graphitic bonds while avoiding strength-compromising interactions between graphitic domains. The best processing condition led to record high average strength of 6.30.8 GPa (7.7 GPa maximum), 66 percent higher than previous reports. More importantly and contrary to most engineering materials, the high strength was achieved together with remarkable energy to failure. The CNF exhibited significant ductility of 3.00.7 percent, with energy-to-failure of over 80 J/g, the highest reported for graphitic fibers. The research on simultaneously strong and tough CNF provides a promising pathway to develop the next generation of nanoscale reinforcements for lightweight and safety-critical structural applications.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1103104
Entities
People
- Mohammad Naraghi
Organizations
- Texas Engineering Experiment Station