The enhancement of composite scarf joint interface strength through carbon nanotube reinforcement

• Main Author: Slaff, Randolph E.
• Other Authors: Kwon, Young
• Published: Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School 2012
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10945/3519

The objective of this research is to investigate the potentially significant improvement to scarf joint bonding achieved through the dispersion of carbon nanotubes along the interface of the composite joint. The study examines various factors that may affect carbon nanotube reinforced joint interface strength. Each composite joint consists of a vinyl-ester matrix base, DERAKANE 510-A, interlaced with a carbon fiber weave, TORAY T700CF. During the curing process the research explores several variables concerning the carbon nanotube application. The testing includes single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) with varying length, purity, and concentration levels along the surface area of the joint interface. This wide array of data demonstrates the effect of carbon nanotubes introduction at the joint interface and provides the ideal type, size, purity level, and concentration level for composite scarf joint bond reinforcement using carbon nanotubes.