Fullerene-induced novel spherulitic structures of poly (ether ether ketone) at high pressure

We report for the first time the effect of pressure on fullerene/polymer composite. Fullerene C60/poly (ether ether ketone) (PEEK) composites with an overall good C60 dispersion were prepared by an easy and environmentally friendly approach. Novel spherulitic structures were induced by C60 nano-aggregations with various morphologies at high pressure. Their morphology and size could be controlled by changing temperature and pressure. Combining the excellent properties of C60 and PEEK, some C60-nucleated spherulitic forms, such as the dendritic spherulites, may be used as surface active materials in functional applications. The study presented here suggested that fullerene was a promising material in promoting the formation of new polymeric structures at high pressure.

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► Pressure effect on fullerene/polymer composite reported for the first time.
► Well-dispersed C60/PEEK composites fabricated by an easy mechanical approach.
► Novel spherulitic structures induced by C60 nano-aggregations at high pressure.
► C60 as a promising material in promoting the formation of new polymeric structures.