• Composites Research
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• v.34 no.5
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• pp.290-295
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• 2021

The application of lightweight structural composites to automobiles as a solution in line with global fuel economy regulations to curb global warming is recognized as a megatrend. This study was conducted to provide a technical approach that can respond to the issue of replacing parts that require conductive properties to maximize the application of thermoplastic carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRPs), which are advantageous in terms of repair, disposal and recycling. By utilizing the properties of the low-viscosity polymerizable oligomer matrix, it was possible to prepare a thermoplastic CFRP exhibiting excellent impregnation properties while uniformly mixing the conductive filler. Various carbon-based conductive fillers such as carbon black, carbon nanotubes, graphene nanoplatelets, graphite, and pitch-based carbon fibers were filled up to the maximum content, and electrical and thermal conductive properties of the fabricated composites were compared and studied. It was confirmed that the maximum incorporation of filler was the most important factor to control the conductive properties of the composites rather than the type or shape of the conductive carbon filler. Experimental results were observed in which it might be advantageous to apply a one-dimensional conductive carbon filler to improve electrical conductivity, whereas it might be advantageous to apply a two-dimensional conductive carbon filler to improve thermal conductivity. The results of this study can provide potential insight into the optimization of structural design for controlling the conductive properties of thermoplastic CFRPs.