Structure of Polymer – Multiwall Carbon Nanotube Composites

Abstract

In the last ten years carbon nanotube composites are in the focus of the researchers. Different composition of carbon nanotubes and polymers were produced by IDMX mixer. In the experiments polypropylene, polycarbonate and ABS polymers were used as matrix materials. Nanotube master batches were used to prepare different compositions. Concentration series were manufactured by the dynamic mixer. The prepared materials were characterised by scanning electron microscopy. The carbon nanotubes can be seen on the fractured surfaces. We did not find any sign of agglomerates in the materials. During the investigation of isothermal and nonisothermal crystallization of polypropylene nanocomposites it was shown that the carbon nanotube has nucleating effect on polypropylene. Mechanical properties were determined. It was found that the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites decreased. The flammability of the composites is significantly smaller than the original polymers. Polypropylene nanotube composites above 4% nanotube content were not dripping. It is most probable due to some kind of network structure of the material. We assume that the carbon nanotube creates a physical network in the polymers.