Abstract
The nanocomposites of monodisperse polystyrene (PS) particles and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were prepared by latex technology to provide good dispersion of nanotubes in polymer matrix. Two kinds of monodisperse PS particles were synthesized either by emulsion polymerization or by dispersion polymerization. The MWNTs were dispersed in deionized water and mixed with the PS particles, and then PS/MWNT nanocomposites were prepared by freeze-drying and subsequent compression molding. Rheological and electrical properties of these nanocomposites were investigated. Pronounced effect of MWNT incorporation was observed, resulting in larger modulus at lower frequencies when compared to neat PS. The nanocomposite prepared under ultrasonication showed the optimum results providing good dispersion of MWNTs and high electrical conductivity. The effect of PS particle size on electrical conductivity was found to be dependent on the MWNT content incorporated.
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