Composite polymeric matrix modified with microwaved treated multi walled carbon nanotubes

Abstract

The stability of carbon nanotubes discourages their use as reinforcement agents for polymer composites production. However, once functionalizated it shows interesting new properties. A multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) were initially treated by a mixture of concentrated H2SO4/HNO3 in a microwave oven and were functionalized, with coupling agent, 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (3-APTES). This process is fast and produces a MWCNT solution clean of fragments. A FT-IR spectroscopy of MWCNT showed specific peaks that indicate its oxidation and functionalization. Mechanical tests of the obtained nanocomposites with phenol / epoxy resin and MWCNT, were prepared showing improved mechanical properties such as flexural strength and impact resistance.