The effect of the surface modification of carbon nanotubes on their dispersion in the epoxy matrix

Abstract

The effect of the surface modification of carbon nanotubes on their dispersion in the epoxy matrix Functionalization of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) has an effect on the dispersion of MWCNT in the epoxy matrix. Samples based on two kinds of epoxy resin and different weight percentage of MWCNTs (functionalized and non-functionalized) were prepared. Epoxy/carbon nanotubes composites were prepared by different mixing methods (ultrasounds and a combination of ultrasounds and mechanical mixing). CNTs modified with different functional groups were investigated. Surfactants were used to lower the surface tension of the liquid, which enabled easier spreading and reducing the interfacial tension. Solvents were also used to reduce the liquid viscosity. Some of them facilitate homogeneous dispersion of nanotubes in the resin. The properties of epoxy/nanotubes composites strongly depend on a uniform distribution of carbon nanotubes in the epoxy matrix. The type of epoxy resin, solvent, surfactant and mixing method for homogeneous dispersion of CNTs in the epoxy matrix was evaluated. The effect of CNTs functionalization type on their dispersion in the epoxy resins was evaluated on the basis of viscosity and microstructure studies.

Physical, Thermal Transport, and Compressive Properties of Epoxy Composite Filled with Graphitic- and Ceramic-Based Thermally Conductive Nanofillers

“…Fewer large agglomerations of nanotubes were observed in the epoxy/MWCNT 1 and epoxy/MWCNT 5, and it was quite challenging to disperse them in the epoxy matrix. This observation is in accordance with the results obtained by Wladyka-Przybylak et al [ 49 ]. The SEM images presented in Figure 10 c,d show that the MWCNTs in the epoxy/MWCNT 5 composites failed to disperse individually, and fewer agglomerated nanotubes were formed.…”

The influence of carbon fillers on the thermal properties of polyurethane foam

“…This phenomenon can be explained by the changes in the viscosity of the matrix caused by the addition of CNTs. It is well known that uniformly dispersed nanotubes have a very high free surface area, and this changes the viscosity of such mixtures [13].…”

Grafting of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes with Chicken Feather Keratin

“…However, the high specific surface area (200 and 400 m 2 /g) [6] results in a strong tendency to agglomeration. Nanoropes (agglomerates) due to Van der Waals forces are extremely difficult to disperse and align in a polymer matrix [5,7]. Thus, the way to improve the dispersion of the carbon nanotubes in a polymer matrix is the functionalization of CNTs [5,[8][9][10], in particular, covalent functionalization, for which one has first to generate defects on the surface of the carbon nanotubes by hydrolysis, thus forming the covalent bond.…”