Thermal Properties of Polymer–Carbon Nanocomposites

Abstract

Carbon-based nanomaterials are widely used in polymer nanocomposites with enhanced properties. The dispersion of carbon nanomaterials and their interaction with the polymer can be improved by the surface functionalization of the carbon nanofillers, optimum processing conditions, and the methods of preparation of nanocomposites. Carbon nanofillers such as carbon nanotube (CNT), graphene, fullerene, and carbon nanofiber (CNF) can influence the thermal stability of the polymer matrix due to several mechanisms acting between the carbonaceous fillers and the basic polymer matrix. Optimum loading of carbon nanomaterials and proper interactions at the interphase between polymer and fillers can increase the thermal stability to a greater extent. Carbon nanomaterials can also impart changes in glass transition temperatures, crystallization temperatures as well as the extent of crystallinity of the polymer phase in the composites.