Polymer Composite Containing Carbon Nanotubes and their Applications

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) possess high aspect ratios and excellent thermal/electrical conductivities, making them attractive for polymer composites.
• Challenges include CNT aggregation, poor interfacial bonding, and high costs, leading to variable composite performance.
• CNT polymer composites are lightweight and processable, driving research for diverse applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent research and patents on carbon nanomaterial-polymer composites.
• To suggest optimal design strategies for carbon nanotube polymer composites and their applications.
• To elucidate the factors influencing electrical percolation thresholds and conductivity in CNT composites.

Main Methods:

• Summarizing research on CNT polymer composites and their applications.
• Analyzing the impact of filler properties, polymer type, and dispersion on percolation thresholds.
• Investigating methods like ultrasonication and three-roll milling for CNT exfoliation.
• Exploring surface functionalization of CNTs to improve matrix interaction and dispersion.

Main Results:

• Electrical conductivity transitions from insulator to conductor above the percolation threshold.
• Percolation threshold values vary based on CNT dispersion, filler, and polymer matrix.
• Functionalization and improved dispersion enhance CNT network formation, boosting composite conductivity.
• Ultrasonication and three-roll milling aid in exfoliating CNTs from bundles.

Conclusions:

• CNT functionalization, high aspect ratio, and controlled fabrication achieve uniform nanotube dispersion.
• This leads to significant improvements in electrical conductivity and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding.
• Optimized CNT polymer composites show promise for advanced material applications.