Incorporation of multi-walled carbon nanotubes into high temperature resin using dry mixing techniques

As part of an ongoing effort to develop multi-functional advanced composites, blends of PETI-330 and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were prepared and characterized. Dry mixing techniques were employed and the maximum loading level of the MWNT chosen was based primarily on its effect on melt viscosity. The PETI-330/MWNT mixtures were prepared at concentrations ranging from 3 to 25 wt%. The resulting powders were characterized for homogeneity, thermal and rheological properties and extrudability as continuous fibers. Based on the characterization results, samples containing 10, 15 and 20 wt% MWNTs were chosen for more comprehensive evaluation. Samples were also prepared using in situ polymerization and solution mixing techniques and their properties were compared with the ball-mill prepared samples. The significance of this research is that high loading levels of MWCNTs were added to a high temperature matrix without affecting the processing characteristics of the resin. The preparation and characterization of PETI-330/MWNT nanocomposites are discussed herein.