The Microstructure, Mechanical and Dielectric Properties of CNTs/Mullite Ceramics Composites

Carbon nanotube-mullite (Al2O3/SiO2=3/2) composites have been prepared by hot-pressing the corresponding composite powders, in which the multi-walled carbon nanotubes(1~10 vol%) are homogeneously dispersed between the mullite grains. The microstructure of the specimens has been studied and discussed in relation to the properties of the matrix, the bending strength and the fracture toughness, the dielectric constant and the dissipative factor. Carbon nanotube-mullite composites are potential electromagnetic wave absorbers owing to the percolation of the carbon nanotubes.