Characterization of carbon fiber composites reinforced with carbon nanofiber using an automated spray system

With the addition of Carbon nanofibers (CNF) the mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of carbon fiber composites can be enhanced. The most common technique of introducing the nanoparticles into the composite material is direct dispersion into the polymeric matrix. However, this method suffers from complications of increased viscosity and filtration effects that occur once the CNF is dispersed. The indirect method of spraying the nanofibers onto the fabric is expected to produce favorable results. The effects of spraying CNF with different dosages and the influence on the mechanical properties of the composites are investigated. The viability of selective carbon nanofiber reinforcement in carbon fiber composites is examined through mechanical property testing. The fabrics are sprayed using an automated spray system designed especially for this study. Composite laminates with sprayed CNF fabrics are manufactured using vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM). The molded composite structure consists of AS4-5 harness carbon fabrics, Polygraf III CNF, and BMI-Cytec 5250-RTM resin. Specimens of the molded materials are characterized using a three point bending test. Results demonstrate the potential for using the spray system in variable nanoreinforcement applications.