Homogeneous carbon nanotube/carbon composites prepared by catalyzed carbonization approach at low temperature

Abstract

We synthesize carbon nanotube (CNT)/carbon composite using catalyzed carbonization of CNT/Epoxy Resin composite at a fairly low temperature of about 400 °C. The microstructure of the composite is characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results indicate that CNTs and pyrolytic carbon blend well with each other. Pyrolytic carbon mainly stays in an amorphous state, with some of it forming crystalline structures. The catalyst has the effect of eliminating the interstices in the composites. Remarkable increases in thermal and electrical conductivity are also reported.