State-of-the-art of poly(ether ether ketone) matrix reinforced with nanocarbons (carbon nanotube/carbon black) and carbon fibers—promising design, physical attributes and futuristic opportunities
Ayesha Kausar
Abstract
This state-of-the-art overview highlights technical worth of a high-tech engineering thermoplastic polymer, poly(ether ether ketone), and its hybrids with carbonaceous nanoreinforcements and carbon fibers. Accordingly, literature up till now reports on different categories of multifunctional hybrids of poly(ether ether ketone)/carbon nanotube, poly(ether ether ketone)/carbon black, and poly(ether ether ketone)/carbon fiber materials. These composites/nanocomposites have been fabricated through various techniques including solution processing, melt casting, prepreg method, injection/compression molding, three dimensional printing, and other efficient strategies. Adding carbonaceous nanofiller/filler revealed significant enhancements in morphological profiles, heat stability, mechanical features, electrical conductivity, and biological properties of poly(ether ether ketone). In the case of poly(ether ether ketone)/carbon fiber composites, interfacial compatibility and superior physical performance have been achieved through sizing of carbon fibers (using nanocarbon nanoparticles or polymers). Subsequently, modification of carbonaceous nanoparticles, carbon fiber, and poly(ether ether ketone) backbone led to technically high end applications for aerospace, fuel cells, and bone implants. Nevertheless, further research regarding design/structural optimization, structure-property relationships, and property enhancement mechanisms of poly(ether ether ketone)/nanocarbons and poly(ether ether ketone)/carbon fiber hybrids seems indispensable to unlock myriad of future industrial opportunities, ranging from space/defense—to—energy—to—biomedical sectors.