Preparation of in-situ grown carbon nanotubes via dithiocarbamate in composites with excellent microstructure and mechanical performance

Abstract Dithiocarbamate binding to nickel was successfully synthesized on the surface of carbon fibers acting as the catalyst of carbon nanotubes via two feasible strategy, including typical one–step method with metal hydroxide and green mild Markovnikov addition procedure using ethyl vinyl ether. The positive effects of modified carbon fibers were investigated, consisting of microstructure, roughness, and surface energy, etc. Further, carbon fiber composites with carbon nanotubes grown in-situ were prepared by combining methylphenyl silicone and phenolic resin, then undergoing a hyperthermal sintering process. The surface morphologies proved that the microstructure of composites changed dramatically due to substantial carbon nanotube whiskers. Furthermore, the mechanical performance of high temperature treated composite materials with higher modulus and strength had been enhanced, which the compressive strength and interlaminar shear strength could reach approximately 20 MPa (further up to 150%) and 10 MPa (120%). The modification of carbon fibers and growth of CNTs in-situ would contribute to competitive application of resin-based composites in the field of thermal bearing and insulation.