Analysis of an Incomplete Interphase in Carbon Nanofiber Polymer Composites: A New Approach for Conductivity Improvement Publisher



Zare Y ; Munir MT ; Park SJ ; Choi JH ; Rhee KY
Source: Diamond and Related Materials Published:2026

Abstract

While many nanocomposites have an incomplete interphase, this feature has not been fully explored concerning the conductivity for carbon nanofiber (CNF)/polymer samples (PCNFs). This paper models the incomplete interphase in PCNFs, represented by Lc, as the minimum CNF length necessary to achieve effective conduction transfer to the polymer matrix. The effective inverse aspect ratio and CNF concentration are functions of Lc. Also, percolation inception (ϕp) and network concentration in PCNFs are estimated through effective parameters. A simplified model is subsequently refined to predict PCNF conductivity, incorporating both the incomplete interphase and tunneling effect. Extensive experimental data validate the model's predictions. Furthermore, the impact of each parameter on PCNF conductivity is thoroughly analyzed to substantiate the proposed simulation. Insulative behavior is shown in samples with large tunneling distances (λ > 5.5 nm), low interphase conductivity (< 50 S/m), minimal interphase depth (t < 9 nm), Lc > 14 μm, or ϕp > 0.015. Hence, attaining better PCNF conductivity necessitates shorter tunneling distance, higher interphase conductivity, greater interphase depth, smaller Lc, and lower percolation inception. © 2026 Elsevier B.V. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.