Better performance, faster production processes and at reduced costs: these are the three cornerstones on which research in the new materials sector rests. One of the most promising innovations in the field of polymeric-matrix composite materials consists of the incorporation of particles of nanometric dimensions within the matrix itself. By adding nanostructures it is possible to improve them and extend their properties.

One of the most interesting nanometric reinforcements developed recently are carbon nanotubes (NTC), which have excellent electrical, thermal and mechanical (rigidity, toughness and resistance to abrasion) properties. For it to be possible to use carbon nanotubes to make high-performance materials, a process must be developed that allows its production on a large scale and at sustainable costs. The goal of this project is to respond to these requirements and, in particular, during the initiative a process will be researched and implemented for producing polymeric-matrix composites and NTCs on a scale that would allow an economic assessment of its industrial feasibility. The Process For Obtaining Carbon Nanotubes For Developing Polymeric-Matrix Composites project (Ref. ID 2007-5665) is funded by the Fondazione Cariplo.