“In the future, carbon nanotube modified carbon fibre composites could lead to exciting possibilities such as energy harvesting and storage structures with self-healing capabilities.” explained Professor Ravi Silva, Head of the Nanoelectronics Centre at the University of Surrey, pictured. “We have many ideas including the incorporation of current aerospace/satellite technology in automotive design.”
According to the researchers, the application of carbon fibre composites has been hindered by inherently poor electrical and thermal conductivities.
Research demonstrates that by growing nanomaterials, specifically carbon nanotubes, on the surface of the carbon fibres, it is possible to impart these necessary properties.
Novel functionality could enable sensors, energy harvesting lighting and communication antennae to be integrated into the composite’s structure.
“The aerospace industry still relies on metallic structures, in the form of a copper mesh, to provide lightning strike protection and prevent static charge accumulation on the upper surface of carbon fibre composites because of the poor electrical conductivity,” said research associate Dr Thomas Pozegic.
“This adds weight and makes fabrication with carbon fibre composites difficult. The material that we have developed uses high quality carbon nanotubes to allow electrical transport throughout the composite material.”
