Surface Modification of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes:  Toward the Tailoring of the Interface in Polymer Composites

Abstract

The ability to modify the surface of carbon nanotubes is of crucial importance for their utilization in different applications. In the present paper we report on the chemical modification of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNT) by means of epoxide-based functional groups. MWNT were first carboxylated along their walls. This was followed by further reactions to attach di-glycidyl ether of bisphenol-A-based epoxide resin. The behavior of the modified nanotubes in various solvents was altered due to the chemical changes, and analytical techniques were utilized to detect the chemical attachments. The implications of the surface modification achieved are discussed primarily in terms of nanotube−polymer composite applications.

A review on the role of interface in mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of polymer composites

“…For that purpose, proper chemical treatments are required to attach functional groups to filler surface which can react with the matrix [65][66][67][68][69][70]. Figure 5a-c shows three types of surface functionalization of CNT with polymer chains, hydroxyl, and carboxyl groups, respectively.…”

Increased flexural modulus and strength in SWNT/epoxy composites by a new fabrication method

“…In addition to the bands characteristic to SWNT and epoxy resin, this FT-IR spectrum shows a band at 1730 cm -1 characteristic of an ester group. It is well known that acid treatments during the purification of SWNT produce defects in the nanotubes with the addition of few carboxylic acid groups (-COOH) at the defect sites [25][26][27][28]. In Fig.…”

Effect of Processing Conditions on the Mechanical Behavior of Amino Functionalized Nanotube Modified Glass Fiber Epoxy Composites

“…Further improvement in mechanical properties has been reported after the addition of amino functionalized CNT in PNC. 1,[3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20] Besides, effective interfacial bonding between the composites individual constituents the properties of the composite materials is primarily dependent on the dispersion of CNT in the polymer matrix. Thus, at present the full potential of CNTs as reinforcement is still limited due to the non-homogenous dispersion of CNT as they exist as agglomerates and also due to poor interfacial interaction between CNTs and the polymer matrix.…”