| Author: | Or, King Hei |
| Title: | Study of improving performance of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites by incorporating nano-materials in the manufacturing process |
| Advisors: | Kan, Chi Wai (SFT) |
| Degree: | Ph.D. |
| Year: | 2026 |
| Department: | School of Fashion and Textiles |
| Pages: | xxv, 198 pages : color illustrations |
| Language: | English |
| Abstract: | Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites have found widespread applications across various industries such as aviation and marine. Their high specific strength and stiffness make them an ideal choice for constructing aircraft and vessels in order to reduce the structural weight. However, the performance of composites is significantly compromised under specific usage conditions, particularly in high-temperature environments. This limitation restricts their applicability to certain locations, such as turbine blades in aircraft engines. As a result, there is an increasing demand for improving the properties of composites, including strength and thermal stability. Recent research suggested that carbon nanotubes (CNTs) may serve as a suitable medium for enhancing the performance of composites. In this study, composites were fabricated using the Vacuum-assisted Resin Infusion Molding (VARIM) method. The impact of various configurations of constituents and CNT additive was evaluated. Tensile property evaluations were conducted in accordance with ASTM standards. Ply stack configurations, matrix viscosities, and reinforcement weave patterns were compared to establish a baseline for assessing the performance of CNT additive. An eight-ply twill-weaved composite with WS105/209 resin system was found to have the most consistent results across different fabrication conditions and was subsequently used as the base sample for incorporating CNT additive. Improvements were observed in both tensile and thermal aspects of the composites with CNT additive. |
| Rights: | All rights reserved |
| Access: | open access |
Copyright Undertaking
As a bona fide Library user, I declare that:
- I will abide by the rules and legal ordinances governing copyright regarding the use of the Database.
- I will use the Database for the purpose of my research or private study only and not for circulation or further reproduction or any other purpose.
- I agree to indemnify and hold the University harmless from and against any loss, damage, cost, liability or expenses arising from copyright infringement or unauthorized usage.
By downloading any item(s) listed above, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the copyright undertaking as stated above, and agree to be bound by all of its terms.
Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item:
https://theses.lib.polyu.edu.hk/handle/200/14715