Investigation on the modification to polyurethane by multi‐walled carbon nanotubes

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) on the mechanical, thermal and electrical conductivity properties of polyurethane (PU) by in situ polymerisation of MWNTs and PU.

Design/methodology/approach

A number of analytical techniques, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, were employed to assess the effects of acid treatment on MWNTs. The mechanical and thermal properties of PU, MWNTs and PU composites were characterised using a tensile tester machine and dynamic mechanical analysis. The electoral conductivity properties of the materials were characterised by ohmmeter.

Findings

It was found that desirable modifications to MWNTs occurred after acid treatment, thus mainly carboxylic acid groups were introduced onto the surface of MWNTs. And the acid‐treated MWNTs could improve the mechanical, thermal and electrical conductivity properties of PU by in situ polymerisation of MWNTs and PU successfully.

Practical implications

The investigation established a method to synthesise MWNTs and PU composites by in situ polymerisation. The mechanical, thermal and electrical conductivity properties of PU could be improved by the inclusion of MWNTs.

Originality/value

The paper establishes a method to synthesise MWNTs and PU composites by in situ polymerisation; and the effects of MWNTs on modifying mechanical, thermal and electrical conductivity properties of PU by in situ polymerisation are investigated in detail.

Citation

Jiang, X., Gu, J., Lin, L. and Zhang, Y. (2011), "Investigation on the modification to polyurethane by multi‐walled carbon nanotubes", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 40 No. 4, pp. 240-246. https://doi.org/10.1108/03699421111147317