Fabrication and characterisation of low density polyethylene (LDPE)/multi walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) nano-composites

Abstract

Carbon nanotubes (CNT) have shown extraordinary electrical, mechanical properties as well as many other physical properties. The aim of this study is to explore the scope of CNT/LDPE nano-composites for engineering applications. Nano-composites of LDPE and MWCNT are generally prepared by using the melt blending method but in the present investigation these have been prepared by using solvent mixing method. Xylene has been used as a solvent which can dissolve low density polyethylene (LDPE) at about 125°C. The solution of LDPE in xylene has been ultrasonicated with various percentages of MWCNT (0, 1, 2, 5, 10wt% of MWCNT) composite to form thin film after drying. MWCNT used in this study have been synthesised by electric arc discharge method. Characteristics of these composites have been determined by Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Raman spectroscopy revealed variation in intensity of CNT's peak with variation in concentration of CNT. The results indicated that intensity of CNT's peak was found to increase with the increase in concentration of CNT which indicated the type of interaction between polymer and CNT. SEM analysis reveals CNT-polymer interfacial adhesion and shows agglomeration of CNT's at some locations and presence of individual tubes at other locations. These investigations show that LDPE/MWCNT composites can be fabricated using simple solvent mixing method. Further investigation on the effect of MWCNT on mechanical, electrical and thermal properties of LDPE based composites are in progress.