Carbon nanotube fibers for advanced composites

Investigations into carbon nanotube fibers as not only structural reinforcement materials but also standalone or embedded strain/damage, thermal, atmospheric and biochemical sensors are driven by their high specific strength, stiffness, electrical and thermal conductivity, and extreme flexibility. With future applications in view, we have studied their load transfer mechanisms, coupled electrical and mechanical response, high strain rate behavior and adaptability to resin infusion. This article is intended to cover our research over the past couple years and to highlight relevant and interesting work performed by others in the area of carbon nanotube fiber mechanics and experimental characterization.