| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 817233 | Composites Part B: Engineering | 2015 | 6 Pages |
In this work, we studied the influence of surface functionality of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the mechanical properties of basalt fiber-reinforced composites. Acid and base values of the MWCNTs were determined by Boehm's titration technique. The surface properties of the MWCNTs were determined FT-IR, and XPS. The mechanical properties of the composites were assessed by measuring the interlaminar shear stress, fracture toughness, fracture energy, and impact strength. The chemical treatments led to a change of the surface characteristics of the MWCNTs and of the mechanical interfacial properties of MWCNTs/basalt fibers/epoxy composites. Especially the acid-treated MWCNTs/basalt fibers/epoxy composites had improved mechanical properties compared to the base-treated and non-treated MWCNTs/basalt fibers/epoxy composites. These results can probably be attributed to the improved interfacial bonding strength resulting from the improved dispersion and interfacial adhesion between the epoxy resin and the MWCNTs.
