Highly conductive polypropylene nanocomposites containing copper nanowire

Abstract

Highly thermally and electrically conductive polypropylene (PP) nanocomposites were prepared by incorporating high‐aspect‐ratio copper nanowires (CuNW). Surface treatment of the CuNW was important for dispersion and compatibility. A CuNW network was first embedded in a PP matrix, followed by removal of the protective layer on CuNW. At a volume fraction of 2.5%, the thermal conductivity was enhanced by 234% compared to the neat PP. The electrical conductivity significantly increased to 500 S/cm, which is 16 orders of magnitude greater than the neat PP. This PP nanocomposite is attractive for housings for electronic devices and antistatic packaging.