Reduction of residual stresses in polymer composites using nano-additives

Abstract: This chapter discusses the reduction of residual stresses in polymer composites using nano-additives, especially carbon nanofibres (CNFs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). First, a review of conventional nano-additives and their mechanical and thermal properties was carried out. The main thermal and mechanical factors affecting the values of residual stresses were studied. Then the effects of nano-additives on the coefficient of thermal expansion and Young’s modulus of the matrix as the main factors in the formation of residual stresses were discussed. The last section of this chapter presents the experimental results of adding CNFs on residual stresses distribution in carbon-fibre/epoxy laminated composites.