Characterization of Carbon Nanotube Based Polymer Composites Through Rheology

Abstract

Abstract. Poly(methyl methacrylate)/Multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) nanocomposites were prepared by solution method. Here the dispersions of MWCNT in PMMA solutions were sonicated for appropriate time followed by dispersions coagulation. Both types of CNT materials were used such as pure MWCNT and the same MWCNT after their adequate surface treatment. The aim of treatment was to covalently attach organic material onto surface of CNT to process their better dispersion in polymeric matrix leading to more effective CNT reinforcement effect. The state of CNT dispersion was characterized thought rheology measurements with help of parameters like elasticity and viscosity of the melt. Also the effect of sonication onto pure PMMA matrix was determined.

Increased sensitivity of multiwalled carbon nanotube network by PMMA functionalization to vapors with affine polarity

“…Also some portion of isobutyronitrile groups originated from radical initiator AIBN should be expected to be covalently bonded to CNT surface again by process of radical addition 29. The detected value around 13 wt % is lower in comparison with 45 wt % of PS,31 or 47 wt % of PMMA32 for the same technique using isocyanate‐based binding elements followed by radical polymerization. The cause is probably less functional groups on CNT surface like acid groups (COOH) and hydroxyl groups (OH) capable of reaction with isocyanate groups.…”

“…Even though the pristine CNT have some functional groups appearing immediately after the CNT production, another groups originate at the proper CNT oxidation when they are exposed to air environment 33. In this work, pure and non‐treated tubes were used contrary to oxidized CNT (by mixture of sulfuric and nitric acids) in31, 32 what means a limited number of sites for potential isocyanate‐based linking.…”

Carbon Nanotube- and Carbon Fiber-Reinforcement of Ethylene-Octene Copolymer Membranes for Gas and Vapor Separation

“…It is widely known that ultrasound may damage polymers, especially in solution [ 36 , 37 ]. This was investigated previously by rheological measurements for the preparation of poly(methyl methacrylate)/CNT composites [ 38 ]. Based on this experience, the experimental conditions to prepare the filler dispersions were chosen in such way as to minimize the possible effect on EOC in the present work.…”