Mechanics of the interface for carbon nanotube-polymer composites

Carbon nanotubes possess exceptionally superior mechanical properties like high elastic modulus and tensile strength. Hence, they are envisaged to be the ideal reinforcements for polymer composites, especially for enhancement of mechanical properties. However, the superiority of the mechanical properties of nanotubes alone does not ensure mechanically superior composites because the composite properties are strongly influenced by the mechanics that govern the nanotube-polymer interface. The structural strength characteristics of composite materials greatly depend on the mechanical load transfer from the matrix (polymer interface) to the nanotube and the strength of the interface. Hence, the knowledge and understanding of the nature and mechanics of load transfer between nanotube and polymer is critical for manufacturing of enhanced carbon nanotube-polymer composites and will enable in tailoring of the interface for specific applications or superior mechanical properties. In this paper, a review of the state of the art in mechanics of carbon nanotube-polymer composites will be discussed along with some directions for future research in this field.