Preparation and characterization of low- and high-adherent transparent multi-walled carbon nanotube thin films

Thin films of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were prepared by spin coating on borosilicate substrates. The precursor solution was a dispersion of MWNTs in water containing hexadecyl-trimethyl-ammonium-chloride (HDTAC), a cationic surfactant. In order to enhance the adhesion of the films to the substrate, different concentrations of an adhesion promoter were added to the precursor dispersion. Parameters such as the optimum concentration of MWNTs in the networks, temperature of heat treatment, transparency in the visible range, hardness and adherence of the films were investigated. The structural, optical, electrical and mechanical characterization of the thin films is demonstrated in this work.