Session: 13-03-01: General: Mechanics of Solids, Structures and Fluids I

Paper Number: 168190

Mechanical Properties of 3D Carbon Nanomaterials 

Three-dimensional carbon nanomaterials are promising candidates for next-generation flexible electronics because of their strong junctions and the exceptional mechanical properties of their base nanomaterials. Carbon nanosponges (CNS) are ultra-light, highly porous materials with promising applications in energy storage, filtration, and lightweight structural components. Despite their unique structural properties, little is known about their mechanical behavior, particularly their tensile strength and flexibility. This study investigates the tensile properties of CNS to better understand their ability to withstand stress and deformation. By characterizing their mechanical performance, this research provides a foundation for optimizing CNS for advanced engineering applications.

CNS are a class of porous carbon-based materials distinguished by their high surface area, low density, and interconnected network of carbon structures. These attributes make them attractive for various applications, yet their mechanical properties remain largely undocumented. The objective of this study is to systematically assess the tensile behavior of CNS through controlled mechanical testing, focusing on key parameters such as Young’s modulus, ultimate tensile strength, and elongation at break.

To achieve this, thinly sliced CNS samples were prepared and subjected to uniaxial tensile loading using a micro-tensile testing system. KLA T150 nanoscale tensile testing machine has been used for experiments. Important mechanical properties such as Young’s modulus and tensile strength have been evaluated. The resulting stress-strain curves provided critical insights into their mechanical response under tension. The experimental results revealed that CNS exhibit a balance of strength and flexibility, with deformation behavior influenced by their porous network architecture. The findings indicate that the mechanical properties of CNS can be tailored by modifying their structural composition, paving the way for application-specific enhancements.

The results of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of CNS mechanical behavior and their potential role in high-performance materials. By establishing a baseline for their tensile properties, this research serves as a foundation for further material optimization. Potential applications include impact-resistant coatings, flexible electronics, and lightweight, high-strength composites. Future work will focus on refining synthesis techniques to enhance structural uniformity and investigating the effects of environmental conditions, such as humidity and temperature, on CNS mechanical performance.

This research represents a critical step in unlocking the full potential of carbon nanosponges for next-generation technologies. By providing valuable mechanical data, this study aids materials scientists and engineers in designing CNS-based materials for advanced applications. The insights gained here will inform future efforts to enhance CNS properties and expand their use in high-performance engineering systems.

Presenting Author: Peter Bearden Kennesaw State University

Presenting Author Biography: Undergraduate research student

Authors:

Peter Bearden Kennesaw State University
Fahim Dorsey Kennesaw State University
Carson Powers Kennesaw State University
Jungkyu Park Kennesaw State University