Influence of Surfactant Modification on Structure and Properties of CNT Hybrid Multiscale Composites

Hybrid composites with hierarchical structure, simultaneously reinforced by microscale glass fibers and CNTs, are fabricated using resin transfer molding. Processing/structure/property relationships of the resulting hybrid multiscale composites are studied. Loading of the CNTs with surfactant are crucial for structures and properties of composites. Microscopic observation confirms the formation of a CNT percolation network and its roles in mechanical reinforcement and electrical amelioration. The dependence of the CNT morphology on surfactant concentration is responsible for the variation in the mechanical and electrical responses of composites. The hierarchical structure influenced by several competing factors bears great potential for tuning the performance of the hybrid composites.