Non-covalent functionalized multi-wall carbon nanotubes filled epoxy composites: Effect on corrosion protection and tribological performance

To enhance the dispersion of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in epoxy matrix, poly(2-butylaniline) (PBA) was employed as a dispersant to disperse the MWCNTs via non-covalent functionalization. MWCNTs dispersed with PBA were then fabricated to obtain MWCNTs/epoxy (EP) nanocomposites with enhanced corrosion protection and tribological properties. The incorporation of dispersed MWCNTs (1.0%) into the epoxy matrix yielded low water absorption (0.36%), noble open circuit potential (OCP, 0.028 V) and high impedance modulus (5.89 × 1010 Ω cm2), which was consistent with the SEM results after long-term immersion. This is attributed to the barrier property of MWCNTs and PBA as well as the corrosion inhibiting effect from PBA. Besides, the wear resistance of the MWCNTs/EP composites was also enhanced with the addition of 0.5% MWCNTs. All results are closely related with the dispersion of MWCNTs in EP matrix for the use of PBA as dispersant.