The Effect of Silane Coupling Agent Modification on the Mechanical Properties of Carbon Nanotubes/Epoxy Composites

Abstract Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), owing to their distinctive structure, are anticipated to assume a pivotal role in the realm of new functional and high-strength composite materials. This paper delves into the impact of surface modification of CNTs on the mechanical properties of epoxy resin composites and further analyzed the strengthening and toughening mechanisms. Research findings indicated that the surface modification of CNTs with silane coupling agent KH550 and subsequent blending with epoxy resin could remarkably enhance the mechanical properties of the composites. Specifically, the bending strength, tensile strength, and impact strength of KH550-CNTs/EP composites witnessed increases of 196.93%, 95.21%, and 262.62% respectively. The analysis revealed that surface modification could enhance the interfacial interaction between CNTs and epoxy resin, facilitating stress transfer between the two, thereby further improving the mechanical properties. This approach offers an efficient strategy for the development of sustainable high-performance epoxy resin materials.