Functionalization of multiwall carbon nanotubes: Properties of nanotubes-epoxy composites

Abstract

Multiwall nanotubes were functionalized using plasma treatments, chemical oxidation, ball milling and thermal treatments. In optimized conditions, plasmas modify nanotubes surface chemistry with a great selectivity. Vickers microindentation and tension tests performed on epoxy resin loaded with multiwall nanotubes allow comparison of the influence of nanotubes surface chemistry and microtexture on loaded resin mechanical properties.