A Composite Based On Epoxy Polymer and Carbon Nanotubes: Structure, Optical Properties and Interaction with Microwave Radiation

A method for dispersing multi-walled carbon nanotubes in a SpeciFix-20 two-component polymer (epoxy resin + hardener) using joint hydromechanical and ultrasonic agitation was developed. New composite materials with carbon nanotubes were produced. Studies on structural, optical (Raman spectra) and electrical characteristics, as well as processes of passage of electromagnetic microwave radiation (26 – 38 GHz) through experimental composite samples were conducted. It was shown that strong absorption properties of the composite materials are manifested only with substantial weight additives of the multi-walled carbon nanotubes due to the electrical conductivity of the composites. The “size effect” of the additive type on the optical characteristics of the obtained composite materials was found. To achieve comparable parameters of microwave absorption coefficients, fewer amounts of carbon nanotubes with smaller diameter and larger specific surface area should be introduced into the composites.