Poly(phenylene sulphide) and poly(ether ether ketone) composites reinforced with single-walled carbon nanotube buckypaper: II – Mechanical properties, electrical and thermal conductivity

The mechanical properties, electrical and thermal conductivity of single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) buckypaper (BP) embedded in poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK) or poly(phenylene sulphide) (PPS) matrices were investigated. Dynamic mechanical analysis demonstrated a significant increase in the storage modulus and glass transition temperature of the polymers, indicating strong SWCNT–matrix interfacial adhesion. The composites showed improved stiffness and strength, as revealed by tensile and flexural tests, while their ductility and toughness moderately decreased. Exceptional enhancements in the electrical and thermal conductivity of PPS and PEEK were found. Their Young’s moduli and thermal conductivities were compared with the predictions of theoretical models. This investigation indicates that SWCNT-BPs possess great potential to improve the performance of thermoplastics and satisfy a wide variety of demands in multi-disciplinary technological applications.