Hybrid epoxy nanocomposites incorporating PZT-5H fibers and wavy carbon nanotubes: A microstructural perspective

Abstract

This study investigates the electro-mechanical behavior of an epoxy-based nanocomposite system referred to as a Piezo Fuzzy Fiber Reinforced Composite (PFFRC), wherein radially aligned wavy Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) are integrated onto the circumferential surface of piezoelectric PZT-5H ceramic fibers. To evaluate the effective properties of the composite, two distinct micromechanical frameworks namely, the Method of Cells (MOC) and the Mori Tanaka (MT) model, were employed. The influence of CNT waviness on the composite's overall response is thoroughly examined, demonstrating notable improvements in electro-mechanical properties due to the its curved structure. Additionally, the effect of CNT orientation across two orthogonal planes is analysed, highlighting its critical role in tailoring the composite's performance. A third approach, based on the Mechanics of Materials (MOM), is also utilized to cross-validate the results and ensure methodological consistency. The findings suggest that embedding wavy CNTs within an epoxy matrix reinforced by piezoelectric fibers holds significant promise for enhancing multifunctional characteristics, making such hybrid composites well suited for smart structural and sensing applications. © IMechE 2026