On the Optimization of Carbon Nanotube-Enriched Multifunctional Composites: Mechanical and Electrical Approach

Abstract

The mechanical and electrical properties of epoxy resin-based composites can be remarkably improved by adding carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Due to the fact that CNTs are mechanically very stable, light and electrically conductive, a variation of their filling level in a composite matrix could significantly influence the above mentioned properties [1]. For this reason, CNT-enriched composites might offer great potential for the development of structurally integrated electronics used in structural health monitoring (SHM). This allows timely detection of structural damage, seen as an important issue in many fields such as aerospace, automotive, marine and sports equipment [2].