Epoxy/single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) composites toughened by nylon particles (epoxy/SWCNT/nylon) were prepared. The SWCNTs were functionalized by oxidation and subsequent grafting with sulfanilamide. It was found that surface functionalization can effectively improve the dispersion of SWCNTs in epoxy, thus improving composite mechanical properties. Meanwhile, preformed nylon particles were utilized to enhance the fracture toughness of the composites. The epoxy/SWCNT/nylon composites prepared exhibit simultaneously improved stiffness, strength, and toughness. B-staged (partially cured) epoxy/SWCNT/nylon composites were successfully cast into thin films by manipulating degree of cure and viscosity. These thin films can be seamlessly integrated into laminated composite systems upon heating for improving mechanical properties and compression after impact strength of the laminated composites. 2010 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.
