Multi-functional nanocomposite materials with high-temperature polymer resin matrice

Composites that are reinforced with well-dispersed carbon nanotubes have been shown to improve the performance of polymers in many areas such as stiffness, heat distortion temperature, control of thermal coefficient of expansion, and corrosion resistancein extreme environments. However, much of the nanocomposite related research and development has not been directly relevant to carbon fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites technology. In this STTR phase I program, a team consisting of AdvancedCeramics Research, Inc (ACR) and the Center for Nanocomposites at Rice University (Rice) propose to develop a novel nanocomposite system to improve the high temperature performance, electrical conductivity, and EMI shielding capabilities of carbon fiberreinforced polymer matrix composites. The introduction of nanotubes into the composite matrix is expected to improve several properties such as interfacial shear strength, glass transition temperature as well as moisture resistance of the composite system.Commercial benefits include multifunctional composites for EMI shielding as well as high strength composites for elevated temperature use.