Structural and Infrared Spectroscopy of Polyvinylpyrrolidone/Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes Nanocomposite

Abstract

In this work, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)/ Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) nanocomposites were prepared with two concentrations of MWCNTs by casting method. Morphological, structural characteristics and electrical properties were investigated. The state of MWCNTs dispersion in a PVP matrix was indicated by Field Effect-Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) which showed a uniform dispersion of MWCNTs within the PVP matrix. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) indicate strong bonding of carbonyl groups of PVP composite chains with MWCNTs. Fourier transfer infrared (FTIR) studies shows characteristics of various stretching and bending vibration bands, as well as shifts in some band locations and intensity changes in others. Hall effect was studied to test the type of charge carriers which was shown to be P-type. The electrical conductivity was shown increased for the pure PVP and pure MWCNT from (2.047×10-5) (Ω.cm)-1 and (3.683×101) (Ω.cm)-1 to (2.51×102 and 2.36×102) (Ω.cm)-1for both concentrations of nanocomposites, which indicate the conductivity was enhancement by using the carbon nanotubes.