Implementing Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) in CFRP for Launch Vehicle Fuselages

This study conducted experiments to examine how the addition of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) affects the mechanical and morphological properties of a composite matrix reinforced with carbon fibres. The composite was created using filament winding and cured through compression molding. MWCNTs were added to the matrix in varying percentages as a nanofiller. Tensile were performed, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze the surface morphology of the samples before and after tensile testing. The results showed that the maximum tensile strength was achieved with the addition of 1% MWCNTs, while samples with 0.25% and 0.50% MWCNTs experienced a decrease in maximum tensile strength. SEM characterization of the fracture surface before the tensile test helped determine the volume fraction of carbon fibers, with the additions of 0.25% and 0.50% exhibiting the least volume fraction. Samples with 1% MWCNTs also exhibited the highest elongation at break, which was confirmed by SEM characterization after fracture, showing debonding leading to plastic deformation. Additionally, the samples with MWCNTs showed smaller delamination compared to those without.