On the influence of nanotube properties, processing conditions and shear forces on the electrical conductivity of carbon nanotube epoxy composites.

We analyse statistical and kinetic percolation thresholds and maximum electrical conductivities of carbon nanotube epoxy composites as a function of shear forces, processing conditions, nanotube type and dimensions. Entangled and non-entangled nanotubes of different lengths (15-100 microm) and thicknesses (12-80 nm) have been obtained with three different synthesis methods based on catalytic or plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition. The dispersions were processed either solely with a dissolver disk or additionally with a three roll calender.