Fernand Marquis

Abstract:

Carbon nanotubes and graphene are almost perfect molecules with truly amazing combinations of thermal, electrical and structural properties. In order to achieve their full potential they need to be fully integrated hybrid materials in all sorts of matrices. Full integration requires their development beyond conventional composites so that the level of the non-nano material is designed to integrate fully with the amount of nanotubes and graphene. Here the nano materials are part of the matrix rather than a differing component, as in the case of conventional composites. In order to advance the development of multifunctional materials integrating nanotubes and graphene, this research is focused on the simultaneous control of the nano architecture, structural properties, thermal and electrical conductivity of fully integrated hybrid materials. These hybrid materials systems are designed to surpass the limits of rule of mixtures in conventional composite design. The goals are to implement multifunctional designs to fully mimic the properties of carbon nanotubes and grapheme on larger scales for enhanced thermal and electrical management in addition to the control of other properties such as strength, toughness energy and power. These new approaches involve exfoliation, functionalization, dispersion, stabilization, alignment, polymerization, reaction bonding and coating in order to achieve full integration. Typical examples of structural applications of polymeric and ceramic matrices and applications in energy systems such as capacitors and batteries as well as other material systems are presented and discussed.