Chapter 5 - Carbon Nanotubes and Their Polymer Nanocomposites

Abstract

Since their discovery, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been regarded as a fascinating feat of human contrivance. These lightweight materials feature a large aspect ratio and are bestowed with incredible mechanical properties, as well as high flexibility and high electrical conductivity, which have endeared them to be actively researched over the last decade in pertinence to high-end electrical and communication related applications. However, the use of CNTs in their bulk form results in a poor translation of their inherent properties, limiting technological advancement to macroscopic formats. To exploit their endogenous attributes, it becomes crucial to composite CNTs with engineering polymers (e.g., thermoplastics, elastomers, conjugated polymers) or natural polymers to obtain nanocomposites with augmented benefits. In this chapter, we present the different strategies adopted for surface modifications of CNTs, which are necessary for their efficient interactions with any polymer of interest. Also, insights into different strategies opted for the fabrication of nanocomposite matrices to achieve intercalative and exfoliative structures are also presented. The physical properties of thus fabricated polymer/CNT nanocomposites are also discussed with emphasis on their mechanical, thermal, electrical, rheological, and optical attributes. The chapter also focuses on a few recent advanced applications of these nanocomposites in the domains of microelectronics, including efficient energy storage devices and health care applications with special impetus on targeted drug delivery systems and tissue engineering applications.