| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1395876 | European Polymer Journal | 2013 | 9 Pages |
Soluble derivatives of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNT) embedded in a poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) matrix forming thick, homogeneous and transparent nanocomposites, were prepared and characterized. A new photo-assisted method using microwaves, to purify the MWNTs from amorphous carbon and synthesis catalyst clusters, was tested in a sulphonitric mix. This method shortened the processing time compared to other methods. Pristine and functionalized MWNTs were introduced into the MMA, then in situ photo-polymerized. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffractometry (XRD), as well as Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), Raman and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy were used to monitor the effects of the treatment on the different components. The thermal properties of the composites were determined through differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The short, microwave treated and polyethylene glycol (PEG) functionalized MWNTs showed the best dispersion in and interaction with PMMA, and had the most significant influence on the thermal properties of this polymer.
Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► A new fast and clean method based on microwave radiation used for MWNT purification. ► MW treated sh-PEG-MWNTs showed the best dispersion in and interaction with PMMA. ► Homogeneous and transparent nanocomposites, over the whole visible spectrum. ► PEG interacts with the PMMA, influencing its own thermal properties. ► MWNT reduces the PMMA polymeric chains mobility.
