Thermal parameters of carbon nanotubes and potassium bromide composites

Abstract

Photothermal radiometry is employed to investigate the thermal parameters (diffusivity, effusivity, conductivity, and heat capacity) of carbon nanotubes [single-walled (SWNT) or multiple-walled (MWNT)] and potassium bromide (KBr) pressed pellets as a function of SWNT or MWNT mass fraction. A significant enhancement of the thermal conductivity for carbon nanotubes (CNTs) contents up to 2 wt. % was observed. Above 3 wt. % CNT, a morphological transition from a compacted to an unconsolidated granular media occurs leading to a sharp decrease of the thermal conductivity (k) caused by the presence of air interfaces. A geometrical model based on interpenetrating continua is applied to describe the unusual evolution of the thermal conductivity. The behavior of k is also discussed in regard to the latest theoretical reports.