Study on PVA and PVA-Funcfionalized MWNTs/PVA Composite Fibers

摘要

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were functionalized with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) through carbodiimide-activated esterification reactions. This ensured the dispersion of nanotubes in highly polar solvents to obtain high-quality solution. Because of covalent linkages between the modified carbon nanotubes and the hosting polymer matrix, it also allowed the intimate compatibility of the nanotubes and the PVA matrix to avoid any potential microscopic phase separation in the nanocomposites. Homogeneous solution of the PVA-functionalized carbon nanotubes and PVA in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) had been prepared in the conditions of stirring and sonication, then extruded into fiber by gel spinning. The mechanical properties of the composite fibers as well as the control PVA gel spun fibers were investigated. It was found that the mechanical properties of these nanocomposite fibers were significantly improved compared to the control PVA gel spun fibers. Scanning electron microscopy showed an apparent good wetting of the nanotubes in the PVA matrix. These results are supportive of good interfacial bonding between the functionalized carbon nanotubes and PVA.