Polymer-Carbon Nanotube Composites, A Literature Review
Abstract
Carbon nanotubes were first discovered in 1991, and quickly became the focus of much research activity, due to their exceptional electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties. The extraordinary properties arise from the unique tubular structure; the nanotubes may be envisioned as rolled up graphene sheets that are on the order of a nanometer in diameter, and microns in length, resulting in high aspect ratios (length/diameter). In addition to the many applications of pure carbon nanotubes (gas storage, sensors, electronic devices, electron microscope tips, and electron emission devices), there are also a number of applications in which the nanotubes are dispersed in a polymeric matrix, such as electromagnetic shielding, antistatic coatings, high-strength low-density corrosion-resistant components, and lightweight energy storage. The presence of small amounts of nanotubes in an insulating polymeric matrix has been found to improve the mechanical properties as well as render the composite electrically conductive, thus polymer-carbon nanotube composites are of interest primarily for their mechanical and electrical properties. When the matrix polymer is also electrically conductive, in many cases the composite exhibits enhanced electrical properties. This technical memorandum is a survey of current literature on both insulating and conductive polymer - carbon nanotube composites.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA436227
Entities
People
- Trisha A. Huber
Organizations
- Defence Research and Development Canada