Covalent and non-covalent functionalized MWCNTs for improved thermo-mechanical properties of epoxy composites

Two simplified methods for non-covalent and covalent functionalization of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with surfactants were developed, the functionalization degree and properties of their epoxy nanocomposites were studied. Physical absorption and covalent attachment of nonionic surfactants was proved by an increase of the mass loss in TGA and the appearance of characteristic peaks in XPS. The DSC analysis of the epoxy nanocomposites proved a low catalytic influence of 1% modified MWCNTs on the epoxy curing process, while DMA showed a higher flexibility compared with the neat epoxy. Dispersion state of modified MWCNTs in epoxy was related to their functionalization degree.