Dispersion of Carbon Nanotubes: Mixing, Sonication, Stabilization, and Composite Properties

Abstract

Advances in functionality and reliability of carbon nanotube (CNT) composite materials require careful formulation of processing methods to ultimately realize the desired properties. To date, controlled dispersion of CNTs in a solution or a composite matrix remains a challenge, due to the strong van der Waals binding energies associated with the CNT aggregates. There is also insufficiently defined correlation between the microstructure and the physical properties of the composite. Here, we offer a review of the dispersion processes of pristine (non-covalently functionalized) CNTs in a solvent or a polymer solution. We summarize and adapt relevant theoretical analysis to guide the dispersion design and selection, from the processes of mixing/sonication, to the application of surfactants for stabilization, to the final testing of composite properties. The same approaches are expected to be also applicable to the fabrication of other composite materials involving homogeneously dispersed nanoparticles.

Effect of pre and Post-Dispersion on Electro-Thermo-Mechanical Properties of a Graphene Enhanced Epoxy

“…Often, a combination of two dispersion techniques has been used to obtain the best dispersion quality [27,28,57,58], however in some cases it is possible to obtain the same result with only one technique of dispersion. [59].…”

“…The mechanical dispersion of CNT has been widely studied [27,28] and can be extend to GNP due to their similar composition and structure.…”

Carbon nanotube buckypaper reinforced polymer composites: a review

“…If it is aggressive and/or too long, CNTs can be easily damaged, especially when a probe sonicator is employed. The localized damage to nanotubes deteriorates both electrical and mechanical properties of the CNT reinforced polymer composites [35][36][37] . Table 1.…”

Prestrain relaxation in non-covalently modified ethylene-vinyl acetate | PyChol | multiwall carbon nanotube nanocomposites

“…7 Although sonication and shear mixing are common dispersing procedures, they often result in nanotube fracture and surface damage. 8 Another approach towards filler dispersion is the addition of surfactants or dispersants, either through covalent or non-covalent interactions. 9 Photoactuation has recently been observed in ethylene-vinyl acetate | multiwall carbon nanotubes (EVA|MWCNT) composites, where dispersion of MWCNT was achieved by noncovalently bonding cholestryl 1-pyrenecarboxylate (PyChol) to pristine MWCNT walls.…”