Dispersion of carbon nanotubes in polyurethane matrix

A high intensity ultrasound has been applied to fabricate polyurethanes/carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) composites. Mixtures of MWCNTs and poly(ethylene adipate) (PEA) were prepared in a two-step process. In the first step, MWCNTs were dispersed with acetone, in the second PEA and acetone. The mixture of PEA and MWCNTs was used to produce polyurethane (PUR) nanocomposites under the agitation of ultrasounds. The effect of ultrasound intensity has been studied by HRSEM and AFM investigation of the microstructure. The mechanical properties of polyurethane nanocomposites were also evaluated. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.