Fracture mechanisms of epoxy filled with ozone functionalized multi-wall carbon nanotubes

This work focused on the fracture mechanisms and reinforcing effects of ozone-treated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in epoxy matrix. Ozone functionalization of MWCNTs was found to be of help for a better dispersion and stronger interfacial bonding with epoxy matrix, which in turn improve the strength and fracture toughness of the resin. The MWCNT/epoxy composites showed complicated failure modes than the conventional fibrous composites, which have been quantitatively investigated and correlated with the fracture toughness of the nanocomposites studied. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.