Browse Topic: Carbon nanotubes

Items (264)

Design of a Biomimetic Spherical-End Tool Based on Gastropod-Shell Surface Microstructures and an Investigation of its Polishing Performance

2026-99-1001

8/7/2026

To improve stress-distribution uniformity and reduce wear during polishing, a biomimetic flexible polishing tool was developed by incorporating microstructured surface features inspired by the gastropod shell. A biomimetic flexible polishing tool was first geometrically modeled, and then the tool–workpiece contact was analyzed in the elastic polishing regime using Preston’s material removal equation to elucidate stress transmission and contact deformation mechanisms. An Abaqus finite-element model of the elastic tool–workpiece contact was subsequently established to compute tool and workpiece stress fields and contact-area fraction during polishing. The biomimetic tools were fabricated by curing silicone rubber mixed with carbon nanotubes. Polishing validation was performed on a small CNC platform using quartz glass under the parameters α=15°, ap=2mm, and w=30r/s. Results indicate that the biomimetic tool incorporating gastropod-shell microstructures increases the machining contact area by up to 48.60% relative to a conventional tool, and after t=30 min of polishing the surface roughness Ra decreased from 1.019μm to 76nm. These outcomes demonstrate that the biomimetic microstructured flexible tool effectively improves contact stress uniformity and enhances surface- processing accuracy for quartz glass.

Song, Jintao, Hui, Jizhuang, Guo, Lei, Xu, Chen, Hei, Zhengqiang, Zhong, Taiyang, Wang, Jiawei, Liu, Jin

Lightweight Magnesium Nanocomposites with Enhanced Wear Resistance for Landing Gear Application

2026-26-0751

6/1/2026

This study systematically evaluated the wear resilient performance of AZ61 magnesium alloy reinforced with 15 wt.% SiC and diverse amounts of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) under dry sliding circumstances adopting pin-on-disc apparatus (ASTM G99). To identify the influence of factors like sliding speed (SS) (1-3 m/s), axial load (AL) (10-30 N), and MWCNT concentration (0-3 wt.%) that affect tribological performance, experiments were developed using a Central Composite Design (CCD) under Response Surface Methodology (RSM). SEM micrographs revealed a dispersion optimum near 2 wt.% MWCNT, where CNTs anchor to SiC and bridge the α-Mg matrix, while 3 wt.% shows agglomerates and micro-voids. Findings showed that wear loss (WL) and friction coefficient (CoF) was greatly amplified by increasing AL owing to localized heating and contact stresses. A compacted tribolayer was formed by increasing SS, which decreased WL but marginally raised the CoF. At low AL (10 N), SS (2.09 m/s), and 2.12 wt.% MWCNT, the wear resistance was significantly improved by improving load transfer and creating a lubricating carbon-rich coating, resulting in a decreased WL of 0.006 g. The CoF persisted within the range of 0.19 to 0.28. Agglomeration of MWCNTs caused increased WL and CoF when the MWCNT content is increased above 2 wt.%. Worn-surface microscopy at the optimum showed fine wear tracks and a continuous carbon/oxide glaze, evidencing a lubricious CNT-rich third-body film, whereas high AL/low MWCNT produced deep grooves and delamination.

Senthilkumar, N.

New Method Uses Carbon Nanotubes for Health Sensors

TBMG-54937

4/1/2026

Researchers have produced purified single-wall carbon nanotubes that could enable the development of significantly more accurate healthcare sensors. Because certain biomolecules — such as female hormones — are present in the body at extremely low concentrations, next-generation biosensors must detect minute fluctuations with far greater sensitivity than current glucose monitors.

Experimental Investigation of Carbon Nanotube Additives Effect on Performance and Emission of a High-Injection Pressure Common Rail Diesel Engine

03-18-03-0020

5/16/2025

Due to the continuous decrease in fossil fuel resources, and drawbacks of some biofuel properties, in addition to restricted environmental concerns, it becomes a vital manner to innovate some approaches for energy saving and emission reduction. One of the promising approaches is to enhance the fuel properties via adding nanoparticles. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) blended with biofuels get extensive investigations by researchers using conventional diesel engines at relatively limited operating regimes. The objective of this work is to extend these studies using diesel fuel, rather than biofuels, on a high-injection pressure (1400–1600 bar) common rail diesel engine at wide operating conditions and higher CNT concentrations. Experimental results show an increase in peak pressure up to 24.46% than pure diesel when using 100 ppm CNTs concentration. Also, BSFC has decreased by 33.19%, and BTE increased by 54.2% compared to pure diesel fuel at high speeds and loads. NOx and CO2 emissions raised by 24.3% and 23.3%, respectively, while CO emission decreased by 23.68%. These results could be a motivation for extra investigations for CNTs using smaller sizes, lower than 10 Nm, at wider engine regimes and particle concentrations.

Moaayet, Sayed, Neseem, Waleed Mohamed, Amin, Mohamed Ibrahim, Shahin, Motasem Abdelbaky

3D Design and Analyses of an IC Engine Piston under Fatigue Test Conditions Using CNTs for the Next-Generation of Motorcycles

2025-01-8359

4/1/2025

CNTs play an important role in modern engineering projects, especially in engine pistons design for the next-generation of motorcycles. This work presents a comprehensive analyses proposed project using finite element method under actual operating conditions purpose performance evaluation of a motorcycle engine piston design, investigating the suitability of four distinct materials. Precise material properties adhering to linear elastic isotropic behavior were defined within the software environment and proposed advanced nanomaterial ensuring accurate representations of the proposed under the prescribed loading scenarios. The primary objective was to identify the optimal material choice for the piston, ensuring superior strength, minimal deformation, and lightweight characteristics essential for high-performance engine applications. Moreover interpreting and understanding the dynamic behavior of common and advanced engineering materials. Through a comprehensive evaluation of the simulation results, incorporating factors such as material strength, surface deformation characteristics, and lightweight considerations, the Aluminum alloy reinforced with Carbon Nanotubes (Al-CNTs) emerged as the most favorable choice for the motorcycle engine piston design. This advanced composite material offers an exceptional combination of high strength, minimal deformation, and reduced weight, making it an ideal candidate for high-performance engine components subjected to substantial mechanical stresses and thermal loads. The study provides valuable insights into material selection strategies and design optimization techniques for critical automotive and aerospace components, ensuring reliability, efficiency, and adherence to stringent performance standards. Furthermore, the deformation patterns were analyzed, with maximum displacements of 0.01057 mm for AISI 1020 steel, 0.01006 mm for Alloy Steel, 0.01810 mm for Al-CNTs, and 0.02836 mm for 2618-T61 aluminum alloy. Al-CNTs composite demonstrated one of the two lowest surface deformations with significant improvement in high compression tolerance of 265.9 MPa achieved a safety factor of 2.25 with significant reduction in piston weight, further enhancing its suitability for the high-performance piston application. Eventually, the study result and analysis provides valuable insights into material selection strategies and design optimization techniques for critical motorcycle, automotive and aerospace components, ensuring reliability, efficiency, and adherence to stringent performance standards. In conclusion, this research presents an unprecedented innovative step in the use of carbon nanotubes in the design of engine pistons for next generation motorcycles.

Ali, Salah H. R., Ahmed, Youssef G. A., Ali, Amr S.H.R.

Optimization of Vibrational Characteristics Using Taguchi Method for CNT Reinforced Composite Plates

2025-28-0174

2/7/2025

The integration of carbon nanotubes (CNT) into composite materials has revolutionized various high-performance industries, including aerospace, marine, and defense, for their exceptional thermal, mechanical, and electrical properties. The critical nature of these applications demands precise control over the manufacturing process to ensure the optimal performance of the CNT-reinforced composites. This study employs the Taguchi approach to systematically investigate and determine the optimal proportion of CNT volume fraction, fiber volume fraction, and stacking sequence in composite materials to achieve the optimal fundamental frequency. The Taguchi method, known for its efficiency in optimizing design parameters with a minimal number of experiments, enables the identification of the most influential factors and their optimal levels for enhancing material properties. Our findings demonstrate that the proper arrangement and proportioning of these components significantly improve the composite's strength, durability, and overall performance. The optimized parameters derived from this study provide a robust framework for manufacturing superior CNT-reinforced composites, advancing their application in critical sectors where performance and reliability are paramount. To ascertain the material properties of the required combination of glass fiber and CNT, Ansys Material Designer was used. A unidirectional fiber in a hexagonal lattice was considered for the material, where the matrix consisted of CNT reinforcement and epoxy resin. To conduct the vibrational analysis of the study, Ansys software was used to model the rectangular composite plate and find the frequencies of the first 6 modes of each variation of factors. The rectangular plate was modeled in Ansys ACP and the frequency analysis was conducted on Ansys Modal. The plate was subjected to clamped boundary conditions and different volume fractions of glass fiber, CNT reinforcement and stacking sequence for the analysis. The results of this study show that out of the three factors considered, the fiber volume fraction is the most influential and the stacking sequence is the next most influential. This gives us an idea on the considerations needed while manufacturing composite plates and most importantly, the applications which they can and cannot be used for due to their fundamental frequency.

B, Srivatsan, Balakrishna Sriganth, Pranav, Bhaskara Rao, Lokavarapu, Biswas, Sayan

Tribological Behavior and Mechanical Characteristics of AL6061 Alloy with AL2O3 and Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Reinforcement Nanoparticles (Hybrid Nano Carbon Tube)

2024-01-5244

1/28/2025

The objective of this study is to optimize and characterize an Al6061/Al2O3/MWCNT nanocomposite produced through stir casting. The investigation focused on various concentrations of 2%, 3%, and 5% by weight of Al2O3/MWCNT nanoparticles, with an average Al2O3 particle size of 40 nm. The Al6061 matrix exhibited a uniform distribution of these nanoparticles. Microstructural analysis of the nanocomposite was conducted using scanning electron microscopy. The study examined the tribological properties, including wear and coefficient of friction, as well as the tensile strength and hardness of the Al6061/Al2O3/MWCNT nanocomposites. The results indicated a significant enhancement in mechanical properties, with the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) increasing from 122 MPa to 157 MPa, and the yield tensile strength (YTS) rising from 52 MPa to 76 MPa. At a 5% concentration of Al2O3/MWCNT, the hardness test showed an increase from 28 BHN to 55 BHN. The improvement ratios for 2%, 3%, and 5% concentrations of nano Al2O3/MWCNT particles were 36.54%, 38.51%, and 41.55%, respectively. Additionally, the study demonstrated that the addition of nano reinforcement significantly reduced the wear rate. For instance, at a load of 40 N, the wear rate of the Al6061 alloy was 1.4 x 10-3 mm3/m, whereas it was reduced to 0.62 x 10-3 mm3/m with the inclusion of 5% Al2O3/MWCNT nanoparticles.

Haridass, R., Subramani, N., Viknesh, S., Mathan Kumar, M., Mownitharan, M. S.

Wear Behaviour of Banana Fiber Mat/Rice Husk/ Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube Hybrid Polymer Matrix Composites Using Taguchi Technique

2024-01-5233

12/10/2024

The main aim of this experimental study is to investigate the wear properties of a hybrid composite material composed of a banana fibre mat, rice husk powder, and an epoxy matrix polymer filled with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT). This research emphasizes the assessment of the composite's characteristics and behaviour. The adjustment of various ratios of fibres and fillers within polymer matrix hybrid composites finds application in numerous engineering fields, particularly in the automotive and aerospace industries. The experimental evaluation is conducted using a pin-on-disk wear tester to analyze the specimens in terms of pin wear, friction coefficient, and friction force. Experimental trials were conducted using L9 orthogonal arrays following the Taguchi design of experiments, and the output response was optimized by implementing a hybrid approach of Gray relational analysis. It depends upon the suitability of the wear performance needs of the application to obtain the optimal range of use and study of ANOVA software. The ideal conditions have been attained to minimize wear, coefficient of friction, and friction force. After the testing, the specimen's scanning electron/optical microscope images illustrate the wear and primary wear mechanisms. Confirmed experiments with optimal conditions show that the results are closer to the expected results.

Senthilkumar, N., Ramu, S., Yuvaperiyasamy, M., Sabari, K.

Twisted Nanotubes Power Sensors

TBMG-51986

11/1/2024

Researchers have shown that twisted carbon nanotubes can store three times more energy per unit mass than advanced lithium-ion batteries. The finding may advance carbon nanotubes as a promising solution for storing energy in devices that need to be lightweight, compact, and safe, such as medical implants and sensors.

Stretchable, Flexible Biofuel Cell Runs on Sweat

TBMG-51934

11/1/2024

A flexible and stretchable cell has been developed for wearable electronic devices that require a reliable and efficient energy source that can easily be integrated into the human body. Conductive material consisting of carbon nanotubes, crosslinked polymers, and enzymes joined by stretchable connectors, are directly printed onto the material through screenprinting.

Study of Characterization of Nano-additives and Its Impact on the Diesel Engine Characteristics Fueled with Ternary Biodiesel Blend

05-18-01-0002

8/31/2024

The present work deals with the effects of nano-additives on ternary blend biodiesel fuel added in diesel engine. The ternary blend comprises of mustard oil biodiesel and rice bran oil biodiesel, synthesized by means of transesterification and diesel. Nano-additives used in the current study include carbon nanotubes (CNT) and MgO/MgAl2O4 spinel, which were added in a suitable concentration to the biodiesel. CNTs were procured from the market and MgO/MgAl2O4 spinel was prepared by co-precipitation via ball milling process. The nano-additives were characterized by means of FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy), AFM (atomic force microscopy), and DSC (differential scanning calorimetry) analysis. Biodiesel blend samples were prepared such as B20 (20% biodiesel + 80% diesel), B20 + CNT (1000 PPM), B20+MgO/MgAl2O4 spinel (1000 PPM), and B20+CNT+MgO/MgAl2O4 spinel (1000 PPM) were tested against diesel fuel. The maximum increase in brake thermal efficiency (BTE), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), and the maximum reduction in brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbon (HC), and smoke was observed for B20+CNT+MgO/MgAl2O4 at full load conditions when compared to B20. B20+CNT+MgO/MgAl2O4 indicated the maximum advancement of mass fraction burned (MFB) 50% compared to other fuel blends, which is reflected in the other performance, emission, and combustion characteristics. The highest peak cylinder pressure (Pcyl) was recorded for B20+MgO/MgAl2O4 despite the presence of large quantity of oxygen, which reduced slightly (0.63%) due to the addition of CNT. The highest heat release rate (HRR) was recorded for B20+MgO/MgAl2O4 in spite of presence of large quantity of oxygen which reduced slightly (1.73%) due to the addition of CNT.

Jeyakumar, Nagarajan, Dhinesh, Balasubramanian, Papla Venugopal, Inbanaathan

Comprehensive Analysis of Titanium Alloy Machining with 2–7% Carbon Nanotube-Infused Cubic Boron Nitride Grinding Wheel Utilizing Full-Factorial Design

2024-01-5079

8/12/2024

This research explores the experimental analysis of titanium alloy using an innovative approach involving a 2–7% carbon nanotube (CNT)-infused cubic boron nitride (CBN) grinding wheel. Employing a full-factorial design, the study systematically investigates the interactions among varied wheel speed, workpiece feed rate, and depth of cut, revealing compelling insights. The integration of CNTs in the CBN grinding wheel enhances the machining performance of titanium alloy, known for its high strength and challenging machinability. The experiment varies CNT infusion levels to assess their impact on material removal rate (MRR) and surface finish. Significantly, MRR is influenced by CNT content, with 5% and above demonstrating optimal performance. The 7% CNT-CBN wheel exhibits a remarkable 61% improvement in MRR over the conventional CBN wheel. Interaction studies highlight the pivotal role of depth of cut, indicating that slower speeds and feeds, combined with increased depth of cut, enhance abrasive grit penetration and produce superior surface finishes. The damping coefficient, reflective of wheel strength and longevity, follows the MRR trend, with the 7% CNT-CBN wheel displaying the highest value. SEM and AFM images confirm improved surface finishes and reduced grinding burns. This study presents a novel strategy for studying the MRR and Ra while grinding titanium alloy with CNT-infused grinding wheels, offering valuable insights for the field.

Stephen, Deborah Serenade, Sethuramalingam, Prabhu

VaCNT Makes Up a Promising Membrane Material

TBMG-51205

8/1/2024

Membranes of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VaCNT) can be used to clean or desalinate water at high flow rate and low pressure. Recently, researchers of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and partners carried out steroid hormone adsorption experiments to study the interplay of forces in the small pores. They found that VaCNT of specific pore geometry and pore surface structure are suited for use as highly selective membranes. The research was published in Nature Communications.

New Methods in Preparing and Purifying Nanomaterials

TBMG-51207

8/1/2024

Innovators at NASA’s Glenn Research Center have made several breakthroughs in treating hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) nanomaterials, improving their properties to supplant carbon nanotubes in many applications. These inventors have greatly enhanced the processes of intercalation and exfoliation. Both processes are crucial in creating usable nanomaterials and tailoring them for specific engineered applications.

Powering Wearable Devices with High-Performing Carbon Nanotube Yarns

TBMG-51043

7/1/2024

Nara Institute of Science and Technology Nara, Japan

Aerospace & Defense Technology: June 2024

24AERP066/6/2024

Digital Twinning and Protecting Controlled Unclassified Information Aitiip Integrates Freeform Injection Molding to Lower Weight and Reduce Production Costs Image Sensors and Cameras Based on Colloidal Quantum Dots for Defense Applications How SpaceVPX is Influencing the Design of Next Generation Spacecraft Avionics Pioneering Space Communication with Terrestrial Know-How NASA's Optical Communications Demo Transmits Data Over 140 Million Miles NRL Research Physicists Explore Fiber Optic Computing Using Distributed Feedback Researchers introduce a fiber-optic computing architecture based on temporal multiplexing and distributed feedback that performs multiple convolutions on the input data in a single layer A New Approach to Assessing the Quality of Aerospace Components A sensing technology that can assess the quality of components in fields such as aerospace could transform UK industry New Research on Noise Reduction for Next Generation Aircraft Engines The mystery of how futuristic aircraft embedded engines, featuring an energy-conserving arrangement, make noise has been solved by researchers at the University of Bristol. 'Nanostitches' Enable Lighter and Tougher Composite Materials In research that may lead to advancements in the design of next-generation airplane and spacecraft, MIT engineers used carbon nanotubes to prevent cracking in multilayered composites.

‘Nanostitches’ Enable Lighter and Tougher Composite Materials

24AERP06_10

6/1/2024

In research that may lead to advancements in the design of next-generation airplane and spacecraft, MIT engineers used carbon nanotubes to prevent cracking in multilayered composites. Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA To save on fuel and reduce aircraft emissions, engineers are looking to build lighter, stronger airplanes out of advanced composites. These engineered materials are made from high-performance fibers that are embedded in polymer sheets. The sheets can be stacked and pressed into one multilayered material and made into extremely lightweight and durable structures. But composite materials have one main vulnerability: the space between layers, which is typically filled with polymer “glue” to bond the layers together. In the event of an impact or strike, cracks can easily spread between layers and weaken the material, even though there may be no visible damage to the layers themselves. Over time, as these hidden cracks spread between layers, the composite could suddenly crumble without warning.

Conductive Carbon Fiber Polymer Composite

TBMG-50377

4/1/2024

A team of inventors from NASA Langley and NASA Ames have created a new type of carbon fiber polymer composite that has a high thermal conductivity. This was achieved by incorporating Pyrolytic Graphite Sheets (PGSs) and Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs), which enhance the material’s ability to transfer heat when compared to typical carbon fiber composites.

AZ31-MWCNT Composites Fabricated Through Powder Metallurgy for Aerospace Applications

2024-01-1938

3/5/2024

The aerospace industry's unceasing quest for lightweight materials with exceptional mechanical properties has led to groundbreaking advancements in material technology. Historically, aluminum alloys and their composites have held the throne in aerospace applications owing to their remarkable strength-to-weight ratio. However, recent developments have catapulted magnesium and its alloys into the spotlight. Magnesium possesses two-thirds of aluminum's density, making it a tantalizing option for applications with regard to weight-sensitive aerospace components. To further enhance magnesium's mechanical properties, researchers have delved into the realm of metal matrix composites (MMCs), using reinforcements such as Alumina, Silicon carbide, Boron carbide and Titanium carbide. However, meager information is available as regards to use of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) as a reinforcement in magnesium based MMCs although, CNTs exhibit excellent stiffness coupled with very low density. In the light of above, the present work focusses on development of lightweight magnesium based MMCs using CNTs as nano-fillers. This research explores the synthesis and characterization of MWCNT-reinforced AZ31 magnesium alloy composites. The weight fractions of MWCNTs were varied from 0.3% to 1.2% in steps of 0.3%. Powder metallurgy technique has been used to develop the composite. Ball milling was used to blend the composite mixture of AZ31 & CNTs. Microstructural studies such as optical micrograph, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) have been carried out on the developed composites. Micro hardness and compression strength tests have been carried out on the developed composite. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) studies have also been carried out to analyze the compositional elements present in the developed composite. Microstructural studies reveal a fairly uniform distribution of CNTs within the matrix alloy AZ31. A significant improvement in both hardness and compressive strength have been observed for the developed composites when compared with the base alloy.

Mukunda, Sandeep, Boppana, Satish Babu, Chinnakurli Suryanarayana, Ramesh, T, Aravinda, Khan, Saleem

Heat Conduction through Natural Fiber/Carbon Nanotubes Filler Matrix Polymer Composite Slabs: An Experimental and Analytical Comparisons

2023-01-5107

2/23/2024

The latest developments in composite materials are anticipated by green engineering. Materials must be eco-friendly, recyclable, biodegradable, and easy to decompose. Researchers are interested in utilizing natural fibres, fillers, and synthetic active ingredients. Natural fiber-polymer composites can specify certain mechanical properties but are hydrophilic and weak, so they rarely meet the needed thermal properties. Composite material selection depends on the application and the superior properties of the fibre/filler: banana fibre (BF), ice husk (RH) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT). In this research article, a brief discussion of the heat transfer mechanism of composites and the development of energy conduction equation are performed for hybrid natural polymer composite. The maximum thermal conductivity observed for 10BF/10RH/1MWCNT wt.% composite is 0.2694 W/mK. From ANSYS numerical simulation, the temperature distribution along the composite wall temperatures T1 to T8 (inner slab: 353K, interface slab: 333K, and outer slab: 313 K) and along with the maximum internal heat generation (inner Slab: 76.418 W/m2, interface slab: 76.402 W/m2 and exterior slab: 76.285 W/m2) resisted by the polymer matrix composite. Finally, it is concluded that the probe temperature and heat flux experimental and analytical data are identical.

Senthilkumar, N., Ramu, S., Deepanraj, B.

Load Bearing Analysis of Titanium Surface Ground with CBN Wheel and 6% CNT-CBN Wheel

2023-28-0080

11/10/2023

Surface integrity is an important factor in the effective functioning of a component. For this reason, the surface finish is given as meticulous attention as possible, while quality checks are rigorous. The process parameters affecting surface roughness are carefully controlled, with many preventive measures enforced to avoid deviation from the tolerance limits. Surface finish is an important part of the load-bearing properties of a surface as the asperities on its surface first come into contact with the mating surfaces. On contact, the asperities are flattened, and there is debris formation. These asperities are critical in joint replacements where Titanium is a material of choice, as the debris can react with bones and even cause necrosis of bone. The surface finish of Titanium is important as the asperities can function as points of stress when subjected to loads. Stress concentrators are detrimental to a material’s life; therefore, a part’s surface finish becomes critical. This research work has studied the surface finish of a titanium grade 5 alloy by grinding it with a novel grinding wheel with 6% carbon nanotubes (CNTs) electroplated along with cubic boron nitride (CBN) grits in a nickel matrix. The surface finish has improved from the commercially available grinding wheel and has increased the load-bearing capacities of the Titanium workpiece significantly.

Stephen, Deborah Serenade, V, Praveena, Av, Ramanathan, S, Sujith

3D Printing Stronger Carbon Nanotubes

TBMG-48937

9/1/2023

Researchers in the Lyding Group at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have discovered an efficient, sustainable method for 3D-printing single-walled carbon nanotube films, a versatile, durable material that can transform how we explore space, engineer aircraft, and wear electronic technology.

Self-Sensing Electric Artificial Muscles

TBMG-48928

9/1/2023

Muscle contraction hardening is not only essential for enhancing strength but also enables rapid reactions in living organisms. Taking inspiration from nature, the team of researchers at Queen Mary’s School of Engineering and Materials Science has successfully created an artificial muscle that seamlessly transitions between soft and hard states while also possessing the remarkable ability to sense forces and deformations.

Carbon Nanotube (CNT) Based Electrothermal Ice Protection System Flight Tests

2023-01-1398

6/15/2023

Innovative carbon nanotube (CNT) electrothermal heating technology for ice protection systems is one of the alternatives under development that shall contribute to more efficient and sustainable aircraft. CNT heater technology allows for more rapid heat up rates over legacy metallic electrothermal heaters that utilize resistance wires or metallic foils. This more rapid heat up rate can lead to more energy efficient electrothermal ice protection system designs and is being studied to determine how much the rapid heat up properties of CNT can lead to a minimization of residual ice build-up aft of the heated area. Due to the inherent redundancy of CNT material used, leads to a very robust and damage tolerant heating element. To mature this technology to prepare to implement CNT on an in-service aircraft platform, a multi-staged flight testing effort to prove out the technology on an actual aircraft and in a relevant environment is mandatory. Recently a major milestone was achieved after successful execution of a dry air flight test campaign at Embraer’s Gavião Peixoto unit in Brazil. The new CNT ice protection system solution was successfully installed on the vertical stabilizer and flight tested in Embraer’s fully functional Phenom 300 prototype. Collins’ CNT heater and ice protection controller were integrated into the prototype aircraft before executing over 10 hours of ground and “dry air” flight tests. Since this was a prototype aircraft, the CNT was not certified for this aircraft and was only used for technology development purposes. As part of the effort to prepare a CNT based electrothermal ice protection system, structural and thermal analyses were performed along with icing wind tunnel testing to verify the performance of this new technology. This paper summarizes the work performed for the dry air flight test, including some initial performance results of CNT technology, and provide a brief review of the following development steps which included a natural ice flight test.

Hein, Brandon, Botura, Galdemir, Hamman, Matthew, Slane, Casey

3D-Printable Nanocomposite Polymeric Ink Could Replace Epoxies

TBMG-48108

5/1/2023

Mechanical engineering researchers at Michigan Technological University have created a way to make a 3D-printable nanocomposite polymeric ink that uses carbon nanotubes (CNTs) — known for their high tensile strength and lightness. This revolutionary ink could replace epoxies.

Robust Synthesis of Vertically Aligned Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes

TBMG-48110

5/1/2023

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) are scaling up the production of vertically aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) that could revolutionize diverse commercial products ranging from rechargeable batteries, automotive parts and sporting goods to boat hulls and water filters. The research appears in the journal Carbon.

Enhanced Combustion by Photo Ignition of Carbon Nanotubes in a Constant Volume Chamber

2023-01-0406

4/11/2023

Using ammonia as fuel in retrofitted large marine vessels or heavy-duty vehicles has the potential to reduce CO2 emissions. However, ammonia is hard to burn in an internal combustion engine (ICE) due to its poor combustion properties, i.e. having high autoignition temperatures and low flame speeds. This results in the need for a highly reactive secondary fuel or an improved ignition system for achieving complete and stable combustion. This study investigates a radical technology for the ignition of a fuel-air mixture using carbon nanotubes. The technology consists of injecting a mixture of multi-walled carbon nanotubes and ferrocene (CNT-Fe) into a fuel-air mixture and subjecting the particles to a bright flash of light. Due to the photochemical properties of CNT-Fe particles, the absorbed light initiates ignition. The burning particles thereby ignite the gas mixture at multiple points in the chamber, resulting in a flame front propagating faster compared to when using conventional methods like spark plugs. This study investigates the concept in a constant volume chamber filled with mixtures of methane and air, where the CNT-Fe is dispersed inside the chamber and ignited by an externally located xenon flash tube through a quartz window. The aim of the study was to provide a proof of concept, showing that an external light source can initiate combustion in a chamber by CNT-Fe, potentially demonstrating that the technology can be transferred to an engine. Different mixtures of methane/air and chamber pressures were tested. The results show that photo ignition of methane/air is achieved for mixtures with equivalence ratios of 0.65-0.9, whilst for spark ignition the equivalence ratio range was 0.7-1.4. A qualitative assessment of the flame spread is made through optical measurements of the flame front, showing that dispersed CNT-Fe achieves faster burn rates.

Bjorgen, Karl Oskar Pires, Saanum, Inge, Bratsberg, Stian, Jørgensen, Patrick, Lovas, Terese, Emberson, David

Development of a New PVC-Gel Actuator for Implementing Emotional Vibration

2023-01-0094

4/11/2023

Electro-hydraulic actuators, a type of soft actuators, can provide soft-touch vibrations due to their structural characteristics, but some problems need to be improved to apply them to vehicles. That is, it is necessary to increase excitation force, expand frequency band, lower driving voltage, and increase durability. This research aims to design a new type based on electro-hydraulic actuator and improve problems with its performance to develop a product that generates emotional vibration in vehicles. First, a new mechanism and design of an electro-hydraulic actuator called a PVC-gel film actuator are proposed. This actuator uses PVC-gel as a film which covers a dielectric liquid and uses carbon nanotube as a cathode material. In addition, a method of manufacturing an actuator with improved performance has been proposed by creating and testing prototypes with different sizes and material properties. It has been verified that the proposed actuator improves excitation force, frequency band, driving voltage, and durability compared to the existing actuator. Next, as a result of investigating the object that this actuator can exert the most effect on a vehicle based on body sensitivity, a device has been developed that built into a neck pillow in front of the vehicle seat and linked to the music played on the vehicle to generate a comfortable vibration in the neck. In addition, four vibration scenarios have been constructed to generate vibrations according to various genres of music. Finally, as a result of testing on a vehicle with a large number of people, it has been verified that the vibration generating device developed in this study can provide a new and emotional vibration experience for users.

Chang, Kyoung-Jin, Kyung, Ki-Uk, Kim, Hyunwoo, Hong, Sangjin, Park, Dong Chul

Optical Black Coating on Carbon Fiber Reinforced Composite Sandwich Structure with Aluminum Honeycomb Core for Satellites Applications

2022-26-0029

5/26/2022

The composite sandwich structure has been in use in space applications particularly for the satellite body because of its high strength to weight ratio coupled with excellent compressibility strength. In particular, there has been tremendous demand for honeycomb sandwich structures for satellite application in recent years. Currently, a major problem needs to be addressed concerning reflections from satellite structures which leads to capturing in-accurate data of celestial bodies by ground-based astronomy. In the light of the above, this paper focuses on the development of novel optical black coating on Carbon fiber reinforced composite sandwich structures with aluminum honeycomb core. A thin layer of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes black coating was developed on the surfaces of Carbon fiber reinforced composite laminate of the sandwich structure using the Chemical Vapour Deposition technique, to provide a low reflective surface. A three-point bending test is performed for evaluating young’s modulus of the composite sandwich structure and the Compressibility test is carried out to determine the wall buckling of the Aluminum honeycomb core. The compressibility test is simulated in ANSYS with the same boundary conditions as the practical tests. To sum up, the results obtained from ANSYS and the practical test of compression are compared and analyzed. The surface structures of the optical black coating are imaged using a scanning electron microscope to determine the diameter of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes to evaluate the effects of the reflection based on the density of the optical black coating furthermore optical properties such as reflectance will be reported in this paper.

J, Sudharshan, Chaurasia, P Harsh, SURYANARAYANA, RAMESH

Research on the Performance of Composite Cantilever Beam under Special Environmental Condition

2022-26-0006

5/26/2022

This paper will focus on the root facture problem of carbon fibre reinforced polymers (CFRP) material of aircraft winglets through ABAQUS simulation analysis regarding the aircraft takeoff and landing from high altitude at the constant and low-temperature experimental analysis and topography analysis. The innovative purpose of this paper is to identify the critical failure stress of the cantilever bending of unidirectional and orthogonal, embedding carbon nanotube reinforcement, and exploring the embedded carbon nanotube regarding the enhancement effect of CFRP aircraft winglet. First of all, the analysis of the force state of the aircraft winglet, the unidirectional and orthogonal CFRP aircraft winglet at normal temperature, and low- temperature cycling is established based on the principle of classic laminates and statics. The wing cantilever bending critical failure stress mechanics model provides a theoretical basis for the influence of low- temperature cycles on aircraft winglets. Secondly, verifying the correctness of the above-mentioned mechanical model, the CFRP aircraft winglet was studied through bending stress analysis, stress- displacement curve analysis, and sample topography analysis. Finally, the equipment for preparing embedded carbon nanotubes CFRP composite material was designed to ensure the accuracy of the test piece and explored the effect of embedded carbon nanotubes on the CFRP aircraft winglet. The main reason for the weakening of the winglet cantilever anti-bending strength is the fibre. During the low-temperature cycle, the residual stress generated by the aircraft winglet fiber’s repeated damp and heat deformation is too weak to increase the wing's cantilever bending failure critical stress. The enhanced result of the cantilever anti-bending ability and the microscopic mechanism of action provides the basis of the carbon nanotube reinforcement medium to the CFRP aircraft winglet development.

Miah, Md Helal

Numerical Analysis of Flame Temperature and Intermediate Product Concentration in Micro-Scale Coaxial Diffusion Combustion of Methanol

2022-01-0699

3/29/2022

As an excellent nanoscale material, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) play a very important role in improving the batteries of new energy vehicles. The micro-scale combustion flame synthesis method is a promising method for preparing carbon nanotubes. To explore the optimal growth condition of carbon nanotubes under micro-scale combustion, the detailed mechanism of methanol C3 (114 species, 1999 reactions) was reduced based on whole-species sensitivity analysis, then a suitable model of methanol combustion was established by using Fluent software coupling with simplified mechanism (16 species, 65 reactions) of methanol. The model was used for the numerical simulation of micro-scale coaxial diffusion combustion of methanol, and then it was verified by the experimental results of micro-scale combustion of methanol. They were analyzed that the flame temperature field and important intermediate product concentration including the Carbon monoxide (CO), oxhydryl (OH), and aldehyde (HCO) under different methanol flow rates and airflow rates. The results show that the methanol flame temperature field distribution area and the top temperature are gradually increased with the increase of methanol flow rate, the top temperature is increased with the increase of airflow rate. The peak values of CO, OH and HCO are increased with the increase of methanol flow rate. With the increase of airflow rate, they were increased at first, and then were decreased.

Zhang, Peng, Ni, Jimin, Shi, Xiuyong

Structural Morphology, Elemental Composition, Mechanical and Tribological Properties of the Effect of Carbon Nanotubes and Silicon Nanoparticles on AA 2024 Hybrid Metal Matrix Composites

05-15-02-0013

1/13/2022

This research involves the study of the different properties of aluminum alloy AA 2024 in the presence of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and Silicon (Si) nanoparticles. Structural morphology, elemental composition, mechanical properties (density, tensile strength, elongation, and hardness), and tribological properties (wear rate and coefficient of friction) of AA 2024 in the presence of CNTs, Si, and its combinations at various proportions were evaluated using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analyzer (EDX), Universal Testing Machine (UTM), Model HMV-2T Vickers hardness test machine, and pin-on-disk friction-and-wear test rig. The Hybrid Metal Matrix Composite (HMMC) material is prepared by a two-stage stir casting method. It was found that the density of the AA 2024 + 4%CNT + 2%Si is 2.22 g/cm3, ultimate tensile strength is 308 N/mm2, elongation is 15.5%, and Vickers hardness is 187.5 Vickers Hardness Number (VHN). The pin on the disk machine is used to evaluate the wear resistance and friction coefficient of the sample. Under higher loads, it was found that the wear rate and friction coefficient of the composite material decreased. AA 2024 + 4%CNT + 2%Si showed higher results than other composite materials.

Muniyappan, M., Iyandurai, Natesan

Woven Nanotube Fibers Turn Heat into Power

TBMG-4025611/1/2021

Invisibly small carbon nanotubes aligned as fibers and sewn into fabrics become a thermoelectric generator that can turn heat from the sun or other sources into energy.

3D Printable Polymer Nanocomposite Ink

TBMG-4025811/1/2021

Researchers have created a way to make a 3D printable nanocomposite polymeric ink that uses carbon nanotubes (CNTs) — known for their high tensile strength and lightness. This revolutionary ink could replace epoxies — and understanding why its properties are so fantastic is a first step toward its mass use.

Method Produces Fine-Grained Targets

TBMG-397969/1/2021

NASA Langley originally developed a Free Electron Laser (FEL) ablation technique to synthesize single-walled carbon nanotubes. FEL provides a vast improvement over other techniques employed to make carbon nanotubes. The nanotubes produced by FEL are very pure, straight, homogenous, and defect-free. Most notable is that these nanotubes can be produced in much larger quantities than by other laser-based techniques.

Nontoxic, Flexible Energy Converters Could Power Wearable Devices

TBMG-39476

7/1/2021

Researchers report the design and fabrication of single-wall carbon nanotube thermoelectric devices on flexible polyimide substrates as a basis for wearable energy converters.

Optimization Approach of Turning Process of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes-Aluminium Oxide/Epoxy Hybrid Nanocomposites

05-14-04-00296/15/2021

The high quality of the machined parts in a short time is a research challenge for enhancing these parts’ operating performance. Optimizing the machining operations and adequately selecting the cutting parameters can solve this challenge. Thus, this work proposes an optimization approach of the machining process parameters of epoxy hybrid nanocomposites reinforced by multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and aluminum oxide (Al2O3). Cutting speed (V), feed rate (F), insert nose radius, and depth of cut (D) were the machining parameters. The roundness error and surface roughness (Ra) were selected as process response control parameters. The optimization techniques such as response surface method (RSM) and grey relation analysis (GRA) with the variance of analysis (ANOVA) were involved. Forty experimental runs were performed. The RSM optimization and ANOVA results showed that the insert nose radius and F are the most significant factors that affect the Ra. Besides, the F is the most significant factor that affects the roundness error. V = 1000 mm/min, F = 0.08 mm/rev, insert nose radius of T1 = 0.8 mm, and D = 1 mm are the optimum values of the process parameters based on GRA for roundness errors and Ra.

Hassan, M.M., Mohammed, S.S., Gaafer, Ahmed, Mosleh, Ahmed O.

Accelerometer and Gyroscope Designs Based on Carbon Nanotube Tape

TBMG-39063

5/1/2021

NASA Marshall Space Flight Center developed designs for two micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) motion and position sensors: a single-axis accelerometer and a gyroscope. The designs leverage a highly aligned multi-wall carbon nanotube (MWCNT) tape with a P(VDF-TrFE) matrix that is mechanically robust and has excellent piezoelectric properties as the sensing and actuating element.

Numerical Analysis of Nano Particle-Based Coolants in Automobile Radiator

2021-01-0819

4/6/2021

This paper presents the numerical analysis of four different nanoparticles namely Aluminium oxide (Al2O3), Silver nitrate (AgNO3), (Fe2O3) and Carbon nanotubes (CNT) mixed with mixture of water and ethylene glycol as fluid medium in an automobile radiator using louvered fin arrangement using forced convection technique under turbulent flow regime. The flow rate of coolant varied from 2 l/min to 5 l/min, while the velocity of air and temperature are constant. The use of nano fluids enhanced the rate of heat transfer of in the radiator as compared to water and ethylene glycol binary mixture as cooling medium. From the numerical analysis, it is found that CNT-H2O nano fluids exhibited better heat transfer characteristics as compared to Al2O3, Fe2O3 and AgNO3 nano particle in the base fluid. Furthermore, the increase in concentration of nanoparticles with the base fluid increases the convective heat transfer coefficient and Nusselt number (Nu). Also, it is found that the rate of increase in convective heat transfer coefficient have a greater influence on the Nusselt number as it is a function of hc and thermal conductivity. The Nusselt number also increased with increase in flow rate of the fluid.

Sathyamurthy, Ravishankar, Chandran, Prasad, Prakash, N, Kaliappan, Vishnu Kumar

Aiming for the 5-minute EV recharge

21AUTP04_104/1/2021

A French nanomaterials company has developed a technology that it claims can significantly increase the storage efficiency of electric vehicle batteries. NAWA Technologies' Ultra-Fast Carbon Electrode (UFCE) is a key to bringing EV battery-charging time into parity with gasoline-refueling time, while improving battery life-cycle performance by a factor of up to five, according to company founder and CTO, Pascal Boulanger. In an interview with Automotive Engineering, Pascal Boulanger said the UFCE technology can help deliver 1,000- km (620-mi) operating range for mass-market EVs, with a time of five minutes for an 80% charge. “The uniqueness of the technology is its 3D structure and use of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes [VACNT],” he noted. Each nanotube is formed from a graphene sheet that is rolled in a cylindrical shape. The tubes have “the same aspect ratio [between diameter and length]as a kilometer-long piece of spaghetti, with the electrode being made of a hundred trillion of these tubes!” The UFCE technology is compatible with any advanced battery-cell chemistry, he said.

Birch, Stuart

Influence of Helical Carbon Nanotubes Reinforcement on Short-Beam Shear Strength of Composite Laminates (SAE Paper 2021-01-0027)

129833/16/2021

Fiber reinforced epoxy composites are widely used in many industries for various applications, which includes aerospace, automotive, renewable industries. Of all the industries aerospace industry is the largest consumer of high-performance composite materials. They are primarily used to fabricate airframe structures such as skin, stringers, and frames. Traditional laminated composites typically use continues fibers as reinforcement and a resin system as a bonding agent, which are known to have excellent mechanical properties such as high stiffness and high strength, while maintain their light weight. One of the main disadvantages of traditional composite laminated structures is their poor interlaminar strength and lack of reinforcement in out-of-plane direction that may result in debonding of the lamiane (delamination and disintegration), when they are subjected to external out-of-plane loads. Various techniques and processes were developed in past decades to improve mechanical performance of the composite structures and assemblies; one such method includes the use of nanoscale reinforcements in between the laminae and within the resin system. However, most prior research has been focused on use of straight carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and other nanomaterials in particle forms. The goal of this research was to improve the interfacial bonding effectiveness and the shear strength between the laminae using nanoscale reinforcements. Because of their inertness, CNTs� interaction with the resin system is generally weak. In this research we have used CNTs with various geometrical configuration (straight and helical geometries) and various weight percentages as an additional reinforcement. The objective was to investigate the effectiveness of helical geometries of the CNTs to form interlocking mechanisms with the resin and the traditional microfiber reinforcements to improve the overall performance of the composite structures and assemblies. In this study, ASTM D2344/2344M-16 is used to study the short beam strength of the laminated nanocomposites and evaluate the benefit of the mechanically interlocked helical CNTs reinforcement. Overall, three sets of composite laminates (i.e., with neat epoxy, straight CNTs reinforced epoxy, and Helical CNTs reinforced epoxy) were fabricated per ASTM standard D2344/2344M-16. Adequate test specimens were cut and then they were tested on a universal testing machine, using a three-point bending fixture with a short span per ASTM D2344 standard. The test results were analyzed ad evaluated to determine the effects of helical CNTs on short beam strength of the laminated nanocomposites.

Sritharan, Ramanan

Interlaminar Properties Improvement of Nanocomposites Using Coiled Nanomaterials

2021-01-0027

3/2/2021

In this research helical Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) with various weight percentages as an additional reinforcement were used. The objective was to investigate the effectiveness of helical geometries of the CNTs to form interlocking mechanisms with the resin and the traditional microfiber reinforcements to improve the overall performance of the composite structures and assemblies. In this study, ASTM D2344/2344M-16 is used to study the short beam strength of the laminated nanocomposites and evaluate the benefit of the mechanically interlocked helical CNTs reinforcement. Overall, three sets of composite laminates (i.e., with neat epoxy, and with two different wt% of Helical CNTs reinforced epoxy) were fabricated per ASTM standard D2344/2344M-16. Adequate test specimens were prepared and then they were tested per ASTM standard. The test results were analyzed and evaluated to determine the effects of helical CNTs on short beam strength of the laminated nanocomposites.

Sritharan, Ramanan, Askari, Davood

Lightweight, Hypersonic, Thermal Protection Material

TBMG-386653/1/2021

State-of-the-art high-temperature shielding materials are not flexible; however, a new technology forms the structurally robust, thermally stable boron nitride nanotube (BNNT) into a low-weight, flexible mat. BNNT advancements are highly sought after because they are as strong as carbon nanotubes but with a much higher resistance to heat, high voltage, and neutron radiation. The flexible BNNT mat can provide temperature protection up to 1300 °C with density of 200-400 kg/m 3.

NAWA aims for 5-minute EV charge

21AUTP03_023/1/2021

A new nano-based carbon electrode is key to reducing electric-vehicle charging time. A French nanomaterials company has developed a technology that it claims can significantly increase the storage efficiency of electric vehicle batteries. NAWA Technologies' Ultra-Fast Carbon Electrode (UFCE) is a key to bringing EV battery-charging time into parity with gasoline-refueling time, while improving battery life-cycle performance by a factor of up to five, according to company founder and CTO, Pascal Boulanger. In an interview with SAE's Automotive Engineering, Pascal Boulanger said the UFCE technology can help deliver 1,000-km (620-mi) operating range for mass-market EVs, with a time of five minutes for an 80% charge. “The uniqueness of the technology is its 3D structure and use of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes [VACNT],” he noted. Each nanotube is formed from a graphene sheet that is rolled in a cylindrical shape. The tubes have “the same aspect ratio [between diameter and length] as a kilometer-long piece of spaghetti, with the electrode being made of a hundred trillion of these tubes!” The UFCE technology is compatible with any advanced battery-cell chemistry, he said.

Birch, Stuart

Radiation Effects on Electronics in Aligned Carbon Nanotube Technology (RadCNT)

TBMG-38532

2/1/2021

The main objective of the RadCNT program was the characterization of fundamental mechanisms and charge transport phenomena governing the interactions between ionizing and non-ionizing radiation with carbon-based (nanotube and graphene) field-effect transistors (FETs) devices and integrated circuits (ICs). This effort was supported through the fabrication of aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) FETs at the University of Southern California’s (USC) Nanotechnology Research Laboratory and through a collaboration with the Naval Research Laboratories (NRL) for radiation testing and expertise in radiation effects characterization.