Effect of dispersion of carbon nanotubes in polyacrylonitrile matrix on mechanical and thermal behavior of nanocomposites

Abstract

The work deals with preparation of polyacrylonitrile (PAN)-based nanocomposites containing multi wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The effect of nanotubes addition to the PAN solution on selected properties of the obtained samples is discussed. The nanocomposites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetry. Agglomeration and dispersion of MWCNT in polymer solution were studied using Zetananosizer. The mechanical properties of the nanocomposites before and after optimization dispersion process were examined. It is found that improperly prepared PAN suspension containing nanotubes causes a significant reduction of the tensile strength of nanocomposite samples. The preparation procedure of the polymeric solution with carbon nanotubes and the sonication sequence have a significant impact on mechanical properties of the obtained samples. The thermogravimetry analysis of nanocomposite samples shows a raise of the temperature of maximum thermal degradation in the case of sample containing 1wt% of MWCNT. © 2009 IOP Publishing Ltd.