Discovery improves conductivity in composites

Although the use of composites in architecture and construction has not yet reached the adoption levels of the aerospace or transportation sectors, there are growing trends of interest and developments that could see more use of composites in buildings. One such harbinger is the recent announcement in Composites Manufacturing magazine, of the “collaboration between Bombardier and researchers from the Universities of Surrey and Bristol in the U.K. [that] has led to a discovery that could enhance the thermal and electrical conductivity of composite materials.”

The article continues, “New research has shown that it is possible to increase thermal and electrical conductivity by growing carbon nanotubes at high density – via chemical vapor deposition – on the surface of carbon fiber composites. The researchers say this technique shows CFRP’s potential to be made multifunctional, while still maintaining its structural integrity.”

“‘In the future, carbon nanotube modified carbon fiber composites could lead to exciting possibilities such as energy harvesting and storage structures with self-healing capabilities,’ says Dr. Ravi Silva, Director of the University of Surrey’s Advanced Technology Institute and Head of the Nanoelectronics Centre.”