In-situ Adsorption of Polymer Particles on Multi-wall Carbon Nanotubes Using Colloidal Techniques

Abstract

A novel technique for the adsorption of polymer particles on carbon nanotubes was developed. First, the surfaces of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were coated with poly(N-vinyl acetamide) (PNVA) to confer them hydrophilicity together with good dispersion stability in water owing to a steric effect between the hydration layers. Second, the hydrophilic MWCNTs were covered with polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) particles bearing positive charges—synthesized using V-50—through electrostatic interactions. These polymers were obtained by soap-free emulsion polymerization. The in-situ adsorption of PMMA particles on surface MWCNTs were attributed to the hydration layers of the modified MWCNTs, and electrostatic interactions between PMMA particles and the modified MWCNTs. It can be expected that the PMMA particles adsorbed on the carbon nanotubes hold the potential to serve as glue between carbon nanotube and PMMA in the composite.