nanotubereinforced

Nanotubereinforced materials, or nanotubereinforced composites (NTRCs), are composite materials in which carbon nanotubes (CNTs) or other nanotubes are embedded in a matrix such as a polymer, metal, or ceramic to improve properties. CNTs offer exceptional tensile strength, stiffness, and thermal and electrical conductivity, along with a high aspect ratio, making them attractive as nanoscale reinforcement. The performance of an NTRC depends on CNT dispersion, interfacial bonding with the matrix, and nanotube orientation.

Processing methods include solution mixing, melt blending, and in situ polymerization; CNT surfaces are often functionalized to improve compatibility and load transfer. Alignment techniques, using electric, magnetic, or flow fields, can tailor anisotropy for specific applications.

Property improvements in NTRCs typically include higher modulus and strength, improved fracture toughness, and, at sufficient CNT loading and connectivity, enhanced thermal and electrical conductivity. Gains are often modest at low CNT content due to dispersion and interface challenges, and mechanical performance hinges on effective load transfer.

Applications span aerospace, automotive, electronics, sporting goods, and biomedical devices. Challenges include achieving uniform dispersion, establishing strong interfacial adhesion, scaling manufacturing processes, controlling costs, and addressing health and safety concerns during handling of nanotubes. Ongoing research focuses on surface functionalization, covalent and non-covalent bonding strategies, and processing methods to realize reliable, reproducible NTRCs.