Studies on Behavior of Acid-Functionalized Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Partitioning in a Phenol-Containing Poly(Amide-Imide)-Based Blend Nanocomposites

Abstract

The phenol-containing carboxyl-functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes/poly(amide-imide) (f-MWCNTs/PAI) composite films were prepared by a simple sonically assisted solution casting technique. The f-MWCNTs are dispersed homogeneously in the PAI matrix while the structures of the PAI and MWCNTs are stable in the preparation process. With the incorporation of f-MWCNTs, the mechanical properties of the resultant nanocomposite films were greatly improved due to the strong interfacial interaction between the f-MWCNTs and the PAI matrix. The dispersion of f-MWCNTs and interfacial interaction were investigated through field emission scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The unique character of CNT dispersed in the PAI matrix resulted in the physical barrier effect against the thermal decomposition, leading to the improvement in the thermal stability of the MWCNT/PAI composites.

Keywords:

• nanocomposites
• multi-walled carbon nanotubes
• thermogravimetric analysis
• thin film
• blending

Additional information

Funding

The authors are grateful to the Research Affairs Division Isfahan University of Technology (IUT) for the financial support of this work. Further financial support from National Elite Foundation (NEF) and Center of Excellency in Sensors and Green Chemistry Research (IUT) is gratefully acknowledged.