A carbon nanotube–alumina network structure for fabricating epoxy composites

A network structure of carbon nanotube (CNT) and alumina hybrid was created via a novel route, which was then employed to produce epoxy matrix nanocomposites by mechanical stirring. Because of the homogeneous dispersion of CNTs and Al2O3 in epoxy matrix and the strong bonding between CNTs and epoxy matrix, the nanocomposite presented obvious improvements in mechanical properties with a small quantity (1 wt.%) of the CNT–Al2O3 addition. Tensile strength and Young’s modulus were increased 34% and 47%, respectively.