Recent Advances in Characterization Techniques for the Interface in Carbon Nanotube-Reinforced Polymer Nanocomposites

Figure 8

Transmission electron microscope images of an individual, functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotube in an epoxy matrix. (a) Chemically modified carbon nanotube covered by the polymer matrix completely, indicating improved interactions at the interface through a covalent chemical functionalization method. (b and c) Fracture toughness improved by such carbon nanotubes through bridging microcracks and pores in the polymer matrix. (d and e) Evidence of improved interactions at the interface through pull-out tests (adapted with permission from references [168, 169]; copyrights 2003 and 2004, Elsevier Ltd).

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