Surface functionalities of multi-wall carbon nanotubes after UV/Ozone and TETA treatments

A carbon nanotube (CNT) surface was successfully modified using the UV/Ozone treatment and a triethylenetetramine (TETA) solution for use as the reinforcement for polymer matrix composites. These treatments along with ultra-sonication are aimed to disperse the CNTs uniformly in the resin matrix, as well as to provide the CNT surface with chemical functionalities for adhesion with epoxy resin. Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy are performed to evaluate the changes in chemical structure and surface functional groups arising from the UV/O3 and TETA treatments, confirming the efficiency of the processes. The practical implications of the surface functional groups for improving the interfacial adhesion in CNT–epoxy composites are discussed.