CNT composites for aerospace applications

Carbon nanotubes were synthesized by thermal arc plasma process after optimization of the synthesis parameters. These samples were then analysed by scanning and transmission electron microscopes (SEM and TEM), in order to establish the morphology of the nanostructures. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and electron diffraction studies were also carried out before using the sample for the composite material preparation. Composites of epoxy resin with curing agent as well as a mixture of graphite and carbon nanotubes were prepared with varying proportions of the mixture. The electrical resistivity of the material was studied under varying pressure and voltage conditions. Preliminary results of these studies present interesting features which are reported here.