Prediction of complex modulus in phase-separated poly (lactic acid)/poly (ethylene oxide)/carbon nanotubes nanocomposites

This study focuses on the modeling of complex modulus in phase-separated poly (lactic acid) (PLA)/poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO)/carbon nanotubes (CNT) nanocomposites. Palierne model for complex modulus of immiscible blends is developed assuming the significances of CNT and interphase regions. The predictions of developed model are compared to the experimental data from rheological experiment and the predictability of the developed model is studied. Furthermore, the roles of main parameters in the complex modulus of nanocomposites are explained to validate the developed model. The calculations show proper agreements with the experimental data confirming the predictability of the developed model. A higher concentration of continuous matrix and a smaller content of PEO droplets cause thicker and stronger interphase in nanocomposites. High CNT concentration and thin CNT mainly improve the complex modulus. Additionally, both thickness and complex modulus of interphase regions directly control the complex modulus of nanocomposites. This study can afford an insight for researchers to control and optimize the complex modulus in immiscible nanocomposites.