NANOPARTICLES IN HIGH PERFORMANCE CFRPS FOR SPACE APPLICATIONS: SUPERIOR MATERIAL PERFORMANCE

Abstract

High performance carbon fibre reinforced plastics were modified by nanoscaled boehmite particles and carbon nanotubes for enhanced mechanical performance. The performed tests show different results for the two types of additives. While boehmite particles especially increase strength and stiffness, CNTs are more effective in minimizing crack propagation. The difference can be attributed to distinct reinforcing mechanisms. The cubical shaped boehmite particles mainly show crack deflection and debonding, while the CNTs are more effective in bridging the gap. In addition to the mechanical performance, the viscosities of the two liquid nanocomposites differ significantly. Results of decreasing the viscosity by shortening the CNTs are also presented in the paper. Finally carbon fibre reinforced plastics filled with boehmite and CNTs are tested mechanically.