Effect of functionalization of multi-walled carbon nanotube on the curing behavior and mechanical property of multi-walled carbon nanotube/epoxy composites

► COOH- and amino-MWCNTs were obtained and characterized. ► Epoxy-based composites with three different MWCNTs were fabricated. ► The addition of MWCNTs promoted the cure reaction of epoxy composites. ► The amino-MWCNT/epoxy composites achieved the highest tensile strength. ► Interface bonding was significantly improved by amino functionalization.