CARBON NANOTUBE-REINFORCED CERAMIC MATRIX COMPOSITES: PROCESSING AND PROPERTIES

The interest in ceramix matrix composites (CMCs) reinforced by carbon nanotubes (CNTs) has skyrocketed since the introduction of this new class of materials, 15 years ago, especially so during the last decade. Key to improving performance and properties of such composites is the ability to i) gain control over the uniformity of dispersion of the nanoscale fillers throughout the ceramic grains and ii) maintain physical integrity of the tubes at the high temperatures and reactive environments associated with ceramics processing. These problems are greater when combined nano-and micro-scale reinforcement is sought after, as per the latest trends. In analogy to micron-scale reinforced ceramic composites, incorporation of CNTs in ceramics aims in enhancing crack growth resistance and toughness. On the other hand, the high electrical and thermal conductance of CNTs suggests that their incorporation in ceramic-based materials can be exploited in a wide range of electrical and high-temperature applications. This paper reviews the current status of research, the challenges and promising routes that concern the effective dispersion and processing routes of CNTs in ceramic matrices and provides an overview of the properties of obtained composites.