Preparation and Characterization of Conductive Superhydrophobic Carbon Nanotubes Films

摘要

In this study, we suggested a facile method for water-repellent coating onto the surface of carbon nanotubes. We synthesized fluoropolymer (FP), poly(TMSMA-r-fluoroMA), by the radical polymerization of 3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate (TMSMA) and a fluoromonomer bearing methacrylate moiety (fluoroMA). The hydroxyl groups on the surface of CNTs after oxidation with hydrogen peroxide could be dominantly attached on the side walls or endcaps and enhanced the interactions with the silanol groups of the FP to stabilize the CNT dispersion in the formation of CNT/FP films. The network of CNTs could control the nanostructure of the films, while the FP compound modified the surface of CNTs. The CNTs/FP films showed the highest water-repellent properties, with a static contact angle of >150 °, which was indicative of superhydrophobic surfaces.