The reinforcement role of carbon nanotubes in epoxy composites with different matrix stiffness

This paper systemically evaluates the different reinforcement roles of carbon nanotubes in those nanocomposites with different matrix stiffness while the curing process is controlled. Both mechanical test and microscope observation indicated that such reinforcement would gradually reduce while increasing the stiffness of matrix. However in the soft and ductile composites, carbon nanotubes show a significant reinforcement without fracture strain...