Dispersion of Carbon Nanotubes: Mixing, Sonication, Stabilization, and Composite Properties

Polymers

Yan Yan Huang¹ 

[1] Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, JJ Thomson Avenue, Cambridge CB3 0HE, UK

关键词: sonication;    shear mixing;    dispersion;    electric conductivity;    composite;   

DOI  :  10.3390/polym4010275

来源: mdpi

【 摘 要 】

Advances in functionality and reliability of carbon nanotube (CNT) composite materials require careful formulation of processing methods to ultimately realize the desired properties. To date, controlled dispersion of CNTs in a solution or a composite matrix remains a challenge, due to the strong van der Waals binding energies associated with the CNT aggregates. There is also insufficiently defined correlation between the microstructure and the physical properties of the composite. Here, we offer a review of the dispersion processes of pristine (non-covalently functionalized) CNTs in a solvent or a polymer solution. We summarize and adapt relevant theoretical analysis to guide the dispersion design and selection, from the processes of mixing/sonication, to the application of surfactants for stabilization, to the final testing of composite properties. The same approaches are expected to be also applicable to the fabrication of other composite materials involving homogeneously dispersed nanoparticles.

【 授权许可】

CC BY   
© 2012 by the authors; licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.