Carbon nanotube (CNT) composite coatings were applied onto C/C composites to improve their wear behavior. CNT was synthesized by catalytic decomposition of acetylene gas. The nanotube slurry was prepared by mixing CNT, phenolic resin and methanol to deposit on and infiltrate into the C/C composites. The CNT composite coatings on C/C composites were carbonized in a nitrogen atmosphere. The tribological properties were determined using a ball on disk type wear tester. The results showed that the CNT composite coating decreased the wear rate significantly and increased the friction coefficient slightly.

Keywords: Carbon nanotube (CNT), C/C composite, Composite coating, Wear