Energy absorption capability of carbon nanotubes dispersed in resins under compressive high strain rate loading

The focus of the present study is on energy absorption capability (EA) of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) dispersed in thermoset epoxy resin under compressive high strain rate loading. Toward this objective, high strain rate compressive behavior of multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) dispersed epoxy is investigated using a split Hopkinson pressure bar. The amount of MWCNT dispersion is varied up to 3% by weight. Calculation methodology for the evaluation of EA of individual CNTs and CNTs dispersed in resins/composites is presented. Quantitative data on EA of individual CNTs and CNTs dispersed in resins under quasi-static and high strain rate loading is given.