Imbaby M., Gottschalk K.
Ulm University, DE
Keywords: carbon nanotubes, dispersant, nanocomposite, PDMS
This research presents a new approach to fabricate polymer/carbon nanotubes (CNT) nanocomposites. Multiwall carbon nanotubes with 6-9 nm diameter and 1.5 um length is used. Polydimethysolixane (PDMS), Acetone, and Polyethylene oxide (PEO) are used as polymer matrix, solvent and dispersant, respectively. The research work is divided into two stages: dispersion of CNT and preparation of PDMS/CNT nanocomposite. A new method is used to disperse the carbon nanotubes into acetone with the help of PEO dispersant. The optimum dispersant to CNT weight ratio and sonication time for obtaining well dispersed CNT are obtained and found to be 1.0 and 4.5 hours, respectively. Nanocomposites containing 0.1, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.5% wt. of CNT in PDMS are produced. It is found that CNTs is homogenously distributed inside PDMS matrix. The research have been don at Ulm University, school of experimental physics,Germany.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2013: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites (Volume 1)
Published: May 12, 2013
Pages: 310 - 313
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Carbon Nano Structures & Devices
ISBN: 978-1-4822-0581-7