Influence of multiwall carbon nanotubes on the morphology, melting, crystallization and mechanical properties of polyamide 6/acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene blends

The morphology, melting and crystallization behaviors and mechanical properties of melt-mixed polyamide 6 (PA6)/acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS) blends in the presence of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were studied. A homogeneous and selective dispersion of MWNTs in PA6 phase was observed and the morphology of the blends was significantly refined with reduced sizes of ABS particles or domains and stabled interface. DSC measurement indicated that MWNTs acted as effective nucleation agent for PA6 and the crystallinity of PA6 was increased. The yield strength and flexural modulus of the blends were significantly improved with the incorporation of only a very small content of MWNTs.

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► We prepared PA6/ABS blends with various MWNTs content.
► A homogenous and selective dispersion of MWNTs in PA6 phase was obtained.
► Greatly refined morphology and stabilized interface were achieved.
► Yield strength and flexual modulus of the blends were significantly improved.
► MWNTs incorporated acted as effective nucleation agent for PA6.