Functionalization of multi-walled carbon nanotubes with non-reactive polymers through an ozone-mediated process for the preparation of a wide range of high performance polymer/carbon nanotube composites

Polymer chains are chemically bonded to multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) through an ozone-mediated process. Four polymers, poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF), polysulfone (PSF), poly(2,6-dimethylphenylene oxide), and poly(phthalazinone ether ketone) are used to demonstrate this MWCNT functionalization. MWCNT–polymer hybrids are characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectrometry, X-ray photoelectron spectrometry, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. This approach provides a general method of preparation of matrix–polymer-modified MWCNTs to be used in the preparation of polymer/MWCNT composites. Compared to pristine MWCNTs and PSF-modified MWCNTs, PVDF-modified MWCNTs are more efficient additives to enhance the mechanical strength and electrical conductivity of PVDF. Therefore, matrix–polymer-modified MWCNTs are relatively attractive in the preparation of high performance polymer/MWCNT composites.