1. The mechanical, rheological, morphological and thermal properties of a polypropylene (PP) matrix reinforced with single-walled nanotubes (SWNTs) and poly(propylene-grafted-maleic acid) (PP-g-MA) content were investigated by melt processing. PP-g-MA was used as a Maleic Anhydride Modified PE to promote carbon nanotube dispersion.
2. Compared to uncompatibilized PP/SWNT nanocomposites, the tensile modulus of the material increased considerably when nanotubes and compatibilizer were employed. Furthermore, the Izod impact strength and tensile strength improved when 0.5 wt.% SWNTs and 1 wt.% Maleic Anhydride Modified PP were added to the PP matrix. The theological characterization results revealed that addition of SWNTs increased the storage modulus and complex viscosity at low frequencies.
3. When PP-g-MA was introduced, the complex viscosity and storage modulus further increased. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the SWNTs were uniformly distributed when low concentrations of SWNTs were employed. In addition, the dispersion and adhesion between SWNTs and the PP matrix were improved when 0.5 wt.% SWNTs and 1 wt.% PP-g-MA were added. The results of differential scanning calorimetry indicated that the addition of SWNTs increased the crystallinity of PP/SWNT nanocomposites.
