TITLE:
Enhanced Tensile Behavior of Epoxy Nanocomposites Reinforced with Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes via Dual-Action Dispersion Technique
AUTHORS:
Somveer Singh, Akhilesh Singh, Anurag Mishra, Ashutosh Singh, Abhishek Singh, Anil Kumar Soni
KEYWORDS:
MWCNT, Mechanical Behavior, Electron Microscopy
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Applied Sciences,
Vol.15 No.8,
August
20,
2025
ABSTRACT: This study explores the effect of multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) reinforcement on the tensile properties of epoxy nanocomposites, using a hybrid dispersion technique involving ultrasonic cavitation and shear force from an axial-flow impeller. Various loadings of MWCNTs (0.25 wt% to 1.0 wt%) were incorporated into the epoxy resin, and the resulting mechanical behavior was evaluated. Optimal performance was observed at 0.75 wt% MWCNTs, with tensile strength and toughness increasing by 36% and 53%, respectively, compared to unfilled epoxy. Scanning electron microscopy of fractured surfaces revealed effective dispersion and crack-arresting mechanisms at intermediate filler concentrations, while higher loadings led to agglomeration and property deterioration. The findings confirm that dispersion quality and interfacial interaction are crucial factors in achieving mechanical enhancement in CNT-reinforced epoxy systems.