Solubility, dispersion and bonding of functionalised carbon nanotubes in epoxy resins

Carbon nanotubes as fillers in an epoxy matrix for mechanical reinforcement and heat diffusion enhancement arc tested. We demonstrate a method to covalently graft functional molecules on carbon nanotubes to alter the filler/matrix interface incompatibilities, making the carbon nanotubes become Soluble in epoxies and allows better homogenisation of the fillers in the matrix. As a result, the carbon nanotubes will bond to the epoxy matrix during polymerisation, and thus create a better mechanical strength and heat transfer enhancement.