Towards Optimization of Polymer Nanocomposites

摘要

In recent years, nanocomposites have emerged as an important research and development area given the large potential that reinforcing elements in the nanometric scale promise. Several materials in the nanometer scale such as nanoparticles (silica, alumina, etc.), nanoplatelets (nanoclays, graphite), nanofibers, and nanotubes have been employed as reinforcing agents for polymeric and non-polymeric materials. In particular, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been named "the ultimate reinforcement material" given their excellent mechanical, thermal and electrical properties in combination with their low density. Thus, single as well as multiwalled CNTs have been aggressively employed in an attempt to reinforce polymeric matrices, It is clear, however, that important issues such as control of the tube geometry, impurities, dispersion, and compatibility with the matrix need to be resolved to fully develop the potential that these novel composites present. The current work is divided into two parts: in the first one, general issues applicable to most polymer nanocomposites are discussed. Secondly, specific results on mechanical properties of a brittle thermosetting epoxy matrix reinforced with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are discussed. Two types of commercially available MWCNTs with different aspect ratios are used. Ongoing work on nanotube functionalization for polymer composites applications is also discussed.