Effect of carbon nanotube reinforcement on fracture strength of composite adhesive joints

This study investigated the use of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as an epoxy adhesive additive for adhesive joints between steel–composite interfaces and composite–composite interfaces. The study also examined the effect of CNT functionalization to improve CNT dispersion and thus improve joint strength. Specimens were constructed by adhesively bonding two parallel coupons, with a starting crack at one end. The specimens were loaded to final failure in three-point bending for Mode II fracture. Critical strain energy release rate was used to compare fracture properties of each set of specimens. It was shown that additions of multi-walled CNTs on the order of 1 wt% with diameters on the order of 30 nm and lengths 5–20 μm enhanced fracture toughness for both steel–composite and composite–composite adhesive joints tested. However, other combinations of CNTs could significantly decrease fracture properties, likely due to agglomeration issues. Functionalization of nanotubes showed some limited promise. Scanning electron microscopy validated the improved dispersion of CNTs using functionalization, but also highlighted the shortening effects due to the harsh chemical treatment. In summary, the study illustrates the importance of various CNT parameters on fracture properties, and encourages further investigation and optimization of these parameters for applications of interest.