Evaluation of mechanical properties of nanostructured composites of PEI/CNT/Carbon fiber

Abstract

The thermoplastic polymeric matrix composites have a great combination of properties, such as high mechanical strength, low density, recyclability and stiffness, being studied and applied in various industrial sectors, including in the aerospace sector. The reinforcements used in these structure can be particulate or in form of fiber, for example, carbon fibers. Poly (ether-imide)-PEI is an amorphous thermoplastic polymer with excellent mechanical properties and high glass transition temperature (217° C). To improve the properties of conventional composites, nanostructured composites has been studied using reinforcements in nanoscale, such as carbon nanotubes, object of study in this project. However, one of the main challenges to be overcome by polymeric composites reinforced with fibers is the interlaminar fracture, which consists in the separation of the interface polymer matrix and reinforcements. Thus, this work aims to evaluate the influence of addition of carbon nanotubes in polymer thermoplastic composites of PEI/carbon fiber, in mechanical tests of End-notched Flexure (ENF) and Double Cantilever Beam (DCB), in addition to the dynamic analysis mechanics. (AU)