Preparation and Performance of MWNTs/ Epoxy Resins Composites

In this work, a series of functionalized MWNTs/EP composites were fabricated by epoxy resins (EP) and functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs). The dispersion of MWNTs in the EP matrix, through different methods, i.e., stirring, solvent, and emulsion dispersion, was investigated. Results show that the homogeneous dispersion of the MWNTs/EP composites was achieved, and the glass transition temperature (T_g) increased to 119℃. The tensile strength and modulus of elasticity were 1.690 GPa and 62.5 MPa, respectively, and the impact strength reached 4.97 KJ/m² for the MWNTs/EP, with a 6 wt% MWNT loading. In addition, the resistivity of the MWNTs/EP composites decreased from 10¹³ to 10⁶ Ω·cm in the initial EP matrix. The incorporation of MWNTs and a novel dispersion method effectively modified the mechanical and electrical properties of the initial EP matrix, and improved the inherent structural defects of the initial EP matrix, reducing the brittleness and impact resistance. With further research, this composite material has the potential to further broaden the application field of novel materials based on the EP matrix.