A Combined Process of In Situ Functionalization and Microwave Treatment to Achieve Ultrasmall Thermal Expansion of Aligned Carbon Nanotube-Polymer Nanocomposites: Toward Applications as Thermal Interface Materials

Ultrasmall thermal expansion of aligned carbon nanotube-epoxy composites at temperatures below and above the glass transition is achieved by a novel combined process of in situ functionalization and microwave treatment. Carbon nanotube-polymer interfacial bonding is the key to the reduced thermal expansion, enhanced storage modulus, and improved thermal conductivity.