Influence of deagglomeration states of carbon nanotubes on the thermal and mechanical properties of carbon nanotube-reinforced polyethylene oxide

Composites of polyethylene oxide and carbon nanotubes were produced by first deagglomerating highly agglomerated multi-walled carbon nanotubes in water, using a high-intensity ultrasonic probe, and then mixing with a solution of the polymer using a high-speed mixer. The deagglomeration of the nanotubes was carried out at different amplitudes of the vibrating ultrasonic probe. Differential scanning calorimetry results show an increase in melting temperature with increase in amplitude of sonication. Also, tensile test results show improved mechanical properties, with increased degree of deagglomeration of the nanotubes. SEM images show that the extent of nanotubes dispersion in the polymer matrix correlates with the extent of deagglomeration.