Correlating electrical and structural properties in surface layer of carbon nanotube polymer composite

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We have recently shown that annealing of agglomerated carbon nanotubes on thermoplast polymers form surface composite films (70 micrometers) (1). This has been explained by preferential carbon nanotubes absorption of infrared radiation leading to local heating. The temperature induced higher mobility of the polymer, in the vicinity of carbon nanotubes, has the effect to disperse agglomerated nanotubes uniformly without any functionalization. Electronic transport measurements show a high electrical conductivity (1 S/cm) at low multiwall carbon nanotube concentration in PEEK (0.5 weight %) suitable for electrical interference shielding. Composite materials with conductive fillers comparable or smaller than the skin depth are particularly effective for electromagnetic shielding, reducing leakage and at the same time enforcing the mechanical properties of the polymer. We will present electronic transport measurements as a function of carbon nanotube content and temperature in correlation with structural measurements using transmission electron microscopy and multi-spectral Raman imaging to better understand the electronic transport in the surface composite layer. We will discuss the effect of carbon nanotube orientation at the surface and report mechanical tensile strength and fracture toughness of the surface composite layer. (1) V. Tishkova et al. NSTI-Nanotech 2012, Santa Clara, Technical Proceedings (2012), Vol. 1, p 298 (ISBN 978-1-4665-6274-5)

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Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2013: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites (Volume 1)
Published: May 12, 2013
Pages: 314 - 316
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Carbon Nano Structures & Devices
ISBN: 978-1-4822-0581-7