Nanostructure-reinforced composite articles and methods
US8337979B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 24, 2007 |
| Grant date | Dec 25, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 31, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/2933
- WIPO fieldMicro-structural and nano-technology
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The present invention provides methods for uniform growth of nanostructures such as nanotubes (e.g., carbon nanotubes) on the surface of a substrate, wherein the long axes of the nanostructures may be substantially aligned. The nanostructures may be further processed for use in various applications, such as composite materials. For example, a set of aligned nanostructures may be formed and transferred, either in bulk or to another surface, to another material to enhance the properties of the material. In some cases, the nanostructures may enhance the mechanical properties of a material, for example, providing mechanical reinforcement at an interface between two materials or plies. In some cases, the nanostructures may enhance thermal and/or electronic properties of a material. The present invention also provides systems and methods for growth of nanostructures, including batch processes and continuous processes.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.