Manipulating Epoxy resin’s Electrical Conductivity Using Carbon Nanotubes

Abstract

This paper deals with effect, which various carbon based additives can have on electrical conductivity of polymers. Specifically the effect on electrical conductivity of polymer composites filled with carbon black (CB) and Single Wall Carbon Nanotubes (SWCNT) is examined. Starting point in the analysis are available, simplified theoretical models. The percolation threshold of pure epoxy with CB is calculated. The percolation threshold for impregnated laminates was found by measurements to be lower and the total conductivity increased compared to the theoretical estimation of pure epoxy/CB composite mixture. In case of SWCNT no theoretical estimates were done as simplified models are not available. Rather, measurements of electrical conductivity were performed on aramid fiber reinforced laminates made with SWCNT instead of CB. Finally both additives were combined in sample laminates to examine their interaction. It was found that the electrical conductivity increased dramatically whereas at the same time the spread in measurement values was significantly reduced in case where both additives were used simultaneously. This observation is considered to be a very useful insight for future studies with very promising positive effects not only on the electrical conductivity, but also on the mechanical properties of composites.

Airbus DS GmbH and The Boeing Company are not associated with this paper.