In Situ Polymerized Poly(Amide Imide)/Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube Composite: Structural, Mechanical, and Electrical Studies

Abstract

Poly(amide imide)/multiwalled carbon nanotube composites were in situ polymerized through Yamazaki–Higashi phosphorylation method, and the carboxylated multiwalled carbon nanotubes are added in the post-reaction stage. The good dispersion of multiwalled carbon nanotubes in the poly(amide imide) matrix was achieved even at 20 wt% nanotube loading. The electrical conductivity reached 33 S m−1; meanwhile, the tensile strength and Young's modulus were 106MPa and 2.52 GPa, respectively. These excellent properties were contributed to the good dispersion of nanotubes and strong multiwalled carbon nanotubes–poly(amide imide) interfacial adhesions. We also demonstrate that the incorporation of multiwalled carbon nanotubes depressed the crystallization characteristics of poly(amide imide) but improve its thermal stability.