Multifunctional Nanocomposites for Improved Sustainability and Protection of Facilities

The U.S. Army makes worldwide use of high-performance ballistic-resistant fiberglass composite panels for force protection and other applications. This widespread use creates a need for an improved panel material that offers better bullet resistance at a lighter weight while still meeting existing ballistic resistance standards. The team s work to solve the Army s need included conceiving, developing, and validating a new nanocomposite material that is made of epoxy resin blended with functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs) that exhibits highly improved flexural strength and electrical conductivity for improving ballistic resistance in lighter weight glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) ballistic panels. In addition, the team s work tested various options for adding self-healing, CNT reinforcement, EMI shielding, and self-decontaminating properties for GFRP panels. Results of separate studies included in this report are: loading panels with CNTs by using different mass fractions and functionalization methods; introducing a self-healing agent directly to the matrix or contained in embedded hollow glass fibers; using layers of proprietary CNT sheeting in the GFRP composite; testing the electromagnetic impulse (EMI) shielding effects of introducing conductive materials; and adding a biocide-containing coating to finished panels. The original document contains color images. Prepared in collaboration with Applied Nanotech, Inc., Austin, TX.