In Situ Growth of Carbon Nanotubes on Dynamic Glass Fiber Substrates

The use of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in composite structures has been studied as early as 1994 by Ajayan, who observed their ability to improve overall composite multi-functionality. Over 15 years later, the lack of widespread implementation of CNTs in multi-scale composites is due, in part, to the inability to cost effectively incorporate CNTs within a composite structure and realize their full mechanical, electrical, and thermal potentials. Three approaches to CNT incorporation in composite structures have been studied, but each contains its own particular shortcomings which either diminish CNT potential or inhibit paths toward large scale production. This thesis focuses on one approach, the growth of CNTs directly on fiber substrates, and the development of a continuous in situ growth process to aid in high volume CNT production on dynamic glass fiber substrates