Effective reinforcement of carbon nanotubes in polypropylene matrices

This study describes an attempt to mechanically reinforce polypropylene (PP) using multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) through a melt compounding process followed by hot-pressing and solid state drawing. The effect of a high density polyethylene (HDPE) coating on MWNTs and melt flow index (MFI) of P...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of applied polymer science 2010-10, Vol.118 (1), p.30-41
Main Authors: Deng, H, Bilotti, E, Zhang, R, Peijs, T
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Applied sciences
carbon nanotubes
Composites
Differential scanning calorimetry
Exact sciences and technology
fibres
Forms of application and semi-finished materials
Matrices
mechanical properties
Multi wall carbon nanotubes
nanocomposites
Polyethylenes
Polymer industry, paints, wood
polypropylene
Polypropylenes
Reinforcement
Reproduction
Scanning electron microscopy
Technology of polymers
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Summary:This study describes an attempt to mechanically reinforce polypropylene (PP) using multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) through a melt compounding process followed by hot-pressing and solid state drawing. The effect of a high density polyethylene (HDPE) coating on MWNTs and melt flow index (MFI) of PP on the dispersion of MWNTs and composite properties are studied by means of mechanical tests, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and wide angle x-ray diffraction (WAXD). Highly orientated composite tapes are prepared to fully utilize the properties of MWNTs in uniaxial direction. Highly aligned MWNTs are shown by SEM, while highly oriented polymer chains are characterized by WAXD. Composite theory is used to analysis the results and indicate that effective reinforcement of PP by MWNTs is highest at relatively low filler content and draw ratios.
ISSN:0021-8995
1097-4628
1097-4628
DOI:10.1002/app.30783