Well-dispersed poly(ether-ether-ketone)/multi-walled carbon nanotube nanocomposites prepared via a simple solution mixing approach

Incorporation of reinforcing nanoparticles, like multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), in a polymer matrix is an effective way to enhance mechanical properties and expand structural applications of engineering polymers such as poly(ether-ether-ketone) (PEEK). Good dispersion of MWCNTs is critical for achieving optimal properties. In this work, a simple solution mixing approach was utilized to prepare PEEK nanocomposites reinforced with MWCNTs. By direct mixing of PEEK/dichloroacetic acid solution and MWCNT/N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone solution, PEEK nanocomposites with individually dispersed MWCNTs were prepared. A PEEK wrapping of MWCNT mechanism is proposed to explain why this simple solution mixing approach resulted in such a good dispersion. Thermal stability of PEEK is not affected but crystallization is impeded due to the confinement effect of well-dispersed MWCNTs. Young's modulus is increased by ca 20% while coefficient of thermal expansion above the glass transition temperature is decreased by ca 30% with only 1.5 wt% MWCNT loading in PEEK, which is critical for a variety of high-temperature applications. (c) 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry.

Automated summary

A simple solution mixing approach was used to prepare PEEK nanocomposites reinforced with well-dispersed MWCNTs, which did not affect the thermal stability of PEEK but increased Young's modulus and decreased coefficient of thermal expansion, making it suitable for various high-temperature applications.