Nitrophenyl functionalization of carbon nanotubes and its effect on properties of MWCNT/LCP composites

Abstract

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were functionalized on their sidewalls with p-nitrophenyl (C6H4NO2) to make MWCNTs compatible with liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) through a specific interaction with LCP. This study examined the rheological, morphological, mechanical, dynamic mechanical, and thermal properties of LCP in detail with a variation of the nitrophenyl-functionalized MWCNTs in the LCP matrix. A higher complex viscosity, storage, and loss modulus were observed in the nitrophenyl-functionalized MWCNTs/LCP composites than the composites with the same loading of raw MWCNTs. The nitrophenyl groups attached to the MWCNTs improved their dispersion and interfacial adhesion with the LCP matrix, which was confirmed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). As a result, the incorporation of the nitrophenyl-functionalized MWCNTs effectively enhanced the mechanical and thermal stability of the LCP. Open image in new window