Electrical nanocomposites of PA6/ABS/ABS‐MA reinforced with carbon nanotubes (MWCNTf) for antistatic packaging

Abstract

AbstractHerein, we prepared toughened and electrical nanocomposites of polyamide 6 (PA6)/acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene (ABS) compatibilized with maleic anhydride‐grafted acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene (ABS‐MA). Functionalized multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTf) were used as conductive nanofillers. Nanocomposites were processed in an internal mixer and injection molded. Torque rheometry, impact strength, elastic modulus, heat deflection temperature (HDT), differential exploratory calorimetry (DSC), melting and crystallization kinetic curves, electrical conductivity, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were evaluated. Torque increased with the MWCNTf content in the PA6/ABS/ABS‐MA/MWCNTf nanocomposites, suggesting an increase in viscosity. The MWCNTf were well dispersed in the nanocomposites, generating an electrical percolation path. The impact strength of the PA6/ABS/ABS‐MA/MWCNTf nanocomposites was superior to that of pure PA6, indicating improved flexibility and toughness. The addition of 1 pcr of MWCNTf in the PA6/ABS/ABS‐MA system was sufficient for antistatic application, with a 221% higher impact strength, compared to pure PA6. The DSC studies showed that the crystallization temperature of the nanocomposites shifted to higher temperatures. This was due to the MWCNTf that accelerated crystallization. Additionally, the nanocomposites HDT increased by 20°C compared to the PA6 matrix, suggesting a superior thermomechanical strength. The developed nanocomposites show improved mechanical, electrical, and thermomechanical properties. Therefore, they exhibit great technological potential for application in antistatic packaging.