Effect of carbon nanotube (CNT) loading on the thermo-mechanical properties and the machinabilty of CNT-reinforced polymer composites

Johnson Samuel, Ashutosh Dikshit, Richard E. DeVor, Shiv G. Kapoor, K. Jimmy Hsia

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

The machinability of carbon nanotube (CNT)-reinforced polymer composites is studied as a function of CNT loading, in light of the trends seen in their material properties. To this end, the thermo-mechanical properties of CNT composites with different loadings of CNTs are characterized. Micro endmilling experiments are also conducted on all the materials under investigation. Chip morphology, burr width, surface roughness and cutting forces are used as the machinability measures to compare the composites. For composites with lower loadings of CNTs (1.75% by weight), the visco-elastic/plastic deformation of the polymer phase plays a significant role during machining, whereas, at loadings ≥ 5% by weight, the CNT distribution and interface effects dictate the machining response of the composite. The ductile-to-brittle transition and reduction in fracture strength that occurs with an increase in CNT loading, results in reduced minimum chip thickness values, burr dimensions and cutting forces in the CNT composite. The increase in thermal conductivity with the increase in CNT loading, results in reduced number of adiabatic shear bands being observed on the chips and reduced thermal softening effects at high cutting velocities. Thus, overall the increase in CNT loading improves the machinability of the composite.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of the ASME International Manufacturing Science and Engineering Conference, MSEC2008
Pages203-214
Number of pages12
StatePublished - 2009
EventASME International Manufacturing Science and Engineering Conference, MSEC2008 - Evanston, IL, United States
Duration: Oct 7 2008Oct 10 2008

Publication series

NameProceedings of the ASME International Manufacturing Science and Engineering Conference, MSEC2008
Volume2

Other

OtherASME International Manufacturing Science and Engineering Conference, MSEC2008
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityEvanston, IL
Period10/7/0810/10/08

Keywords

  • CNT composites
  • Micro machining

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering

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