Improvement in mechanical properties of enamel via carbon nanotube addition

Abstract Enameled metal equipment exploits the strength of metal materials and the corrosion resistance of enamel; therefore, it is widely used in the chemical industry. However, the mechanical properties of the enamel restrict its service life. Multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are one‐dimensional nanomaterials with high‐specific surface area, C–C bond structure, and SP 2 hybrid orbital. Herein, the effect of the dosage of MWCNTs on the mechanical properties of enamel is studied by adding MWCNTs to improve the mechanical properties of the enamel. Microscopic observation showed that the toughening mechanism of MWCNTs was mainly manifested in fracture and pull out behaviors. According to three‐point bending test, when 0.4 wt% carbon nanotubes were added, the reinforcing effect of enamel layer reached the best state. These results provide reference for optimizing the formulation of enamel and extending the service life of enamel.