Authors: P. Castell, M. Cano, W. K Maser, A. M Benito

Journal: COMPOSITES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2013, 80, 101-107

Institute:  Instituto de Carboquímica. CSIC (Spain)

Abstract: We here present an effective strategy to prepare enhanced composites using poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). It contains two essential steps. First, the elaboration of homogeneous aqueous MWCNT dispersions and the selection of the most effective dispersing agent. In a sequential dispersion protocol for seven common dispersants, including surfactants and polymers, the dispersion quality and dispersion ability, independent of the intrinsic nature of the dispersing agent were established using zeta-potential and UV–Vis-spectroscopy. Second, the combination of the most effective dispersing agent, namely dodecylbenzenesulfonate (SDBS) with a polymer dispersant of high affinity towards the PVA matrix, namely polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). This resulted in homogeneous PVA–MWCNT composites with significantly improved glass transition temperature by up to 12 °C as a function of the sequential order of dispersant addition. The presented dispersion strategy is straightforward and thus may provide a fast, reliable and general guide for fabricating nanotube composites with improved performance

Links to the paper http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0266353813001218