Electro-conductive composite fibers by melt spinning of polypropylene/polyamide/carbon nanotubes

In this study, the blends of polypropylene/polyamide with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been prepared and melt spun to as-spun and drawn fibers. Thermal analysis showed that increasing the polyamide content, decreased the degree of crystallinity in the blends. Characterization of fibers showed that both conductivity and tensile strength have been improved by increasing the amount of polyamide in the blends as well as the melt blending temperature; furthermore, the morphology, electrical and mechanical properties of the blends were significantly influenced by adding 1 phr compatibilizer to the blend. The comparison between as-spun fibers and drawn fibers proved that although mechanical properties were improved after drawing, the electrical conductivity was decreased from the order of E−02 to E−06 (S/cm), due to applied draw-ratio of three.

► Increase in crystallization temperature and thermal stability of the blends by adding 5% CNTs.
► Enhancement of conductivity and tensile strength of fibers by increasing the blending temperature as well as adding 1% compatibilizer.
► Decrease in conductivity and increase in mechanical properties of fibers by fiber drawing.