A review of the fabrication and properties of vapor-grown carbon nanofiber/polymer composites

Several varieties of vapor-grown carbon nanofiber with diameters under 200 nm and conically shaped graphene planes canted with respect to the longitudinal fiber axis are available. Because of the strong inter-fiber bonding, compounding these fibers with polymeric resins demands some care. Therefore, fabrication of nanofiber composites has led to variable and occasionally disappointing electrical conductivity and tensile strength. In the following paper we review the published data for vapor-grown carbon nanofiber (VGCNF) composites and show that the best results, achieved with satisfactory dispersion, are consistent with each other and with calculation. With careful preparation techniques, composite tensile strength and modulus of more than triple that of the neat resin can be achieved with 15 vol% fibers. Electrical conductivity can be achieved with less than 1/2 vol% fiber loading, while above 15 vol% loading resistivities near 0.1 Ω cm are possible. Excellent compressive strength and thermal conductivity can also be achieved.