ABSTRACT

Use of nanotechnology and nanomaterials-based products has been increasing. A recent study on the trends of the patents filed worldwide in the area of nanotechnology from 1991 to 2008 shows that there has been a sharp increase in the number of patents filed from 2000 onward [1]. Figure 10.1 shows the number of patents filed in the United States, China, Japan, and South Korea, containing the word “nanotechnology” in the title or the abstract [1]. It was also found that “composite materials” has emerged as a new keyword since 2008 in the patents. It definitely indicates the increasing trend of research in nanocomposites including CNT-reinforced composites. Figure 10.2a shows a recent compilation of the number of nanotechnology products available in the market catering to various industries. Figure 10.2b shows the number of products based on various types of nanomaterials [2]. It can be seen that nanoparticles have found applications mostly in medical and cosmetic industries. The interesting properties that CNTs possess can be utilized for various applications. MM-CNT composites are potential next generation materials for high performance applications. This chapter summarizes the research on MM-CNT composites and provides the state of the art to the readers. With increasing research being conducted in this area, the technology is changing day by day, new benchmarks are being set, and strengthening of the metal matrix due to CNT addition is improving. The lessons learned from previous studies should also be utilized in developing novel techniques or improving existing techniques. Hence, the second important objective of this chapter is to provide the readers future research directions and a possible roadmap in the area of MM-CNT composites.