In-plane shear behaviour of multiscale hybrid composites based on multiwall carbon nanotubes and long carbon fibres

Abstract

Both in-plane shear modulus and in-plane shear strength of multiscale hybrid composites have been studied. Carbon fibre-based laminates have been fabricated including functionalized multiwall carbon nanotubes by means of solvent spraying method and hot compression process. Mechanical in-plane shear characterization has been carried out using off-axis three-point flexure test. Fibre volume fraction of multiscale hybrid composites has been determined through thermogravimetric analysis and fracture surfaces after testing have been imaged by scanning electron microscopy. Results reveal that the inclusion of functionalized multiwall carbon nanotubes on laminates has a small influence on in-plane shear modulus, although it increases up to 15% of the in-plane shear strength. Multiwall carbon nanotube functionalization improves shear stress transmission between matrix and carbon nanotubes, which represents a reinforcement effect responsible for the increase in in-plane shear strength. Scanning electron micrographs have confirmed in-plane shear tests results.