Improving the oxidation resistance of carbon/carbon composites at low temperature by controlling the grafting morphology of carbon nanotubes on carbon fibres

Grafting carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on carbon fibres can improve the oxidation resistance of carbon/carbon (C/C) composites. Through controlling the CNT grafting morphology (including spreading and radial grafting) on fibres, different extents of improvements of the oxidation resistance of C/C composites can been obtained. Compared to spreading CNT reinforced composites, radial CNT reinforced composites have a better oxidation resistance since radial CNTs can provide more efficient through-thickness reinforcements to the whole pyrocarbon matrix and fibre/matrix interface and then inhibit the formation of rapid oxidation channels such as annular matrix cracks and fibre/matrix interface debonding.