Degradation in Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Partially Aligned CNT/Epoxy Composites due to Seawater Absorption

Abstract

This literature gives an overview of the effect of water uptake on the mechanical and thermal performances of partially aligned carbon nanotube (CNT)/ epoxy (having CNTs wt.%: 0.5, 0.75 and 1) along with pure epoxy composites. Weight change behaviour of all the composites immersed in seawater for a period of six months has been recorded. The state of CNT/matrix interface is believed to be influenced due to water absorption. Reduction in flexural modulus, strength, hardness and glass transition temperature (Tg ) of the specimens have been evaluated as compared to their unexposed counterparts due to adverse effect of water absorption. Results demonstrated 35-46% reduction in flexural modulus, 43-56% decrement in flexural strength, 4-7 MPa reduction in hardness and minor deterioration in Tg values for all the composites. However, the specimen having 0.75 wt.% CNT loading, exhibited minimum reduction in properties in all aspects compared to others. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has been employed to study the failure mechanism of the specimens after performing the mechanical tests.