In-Situ Polymerized Nylon 6/Mwnt Nanocomposite Fibers
Abstract
Uniform dispersion, orientation and adhesion between carbon nanotubes and polymer matrix are essential for the improved mechanical properties in the nanocomposite. We prepared multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWNT)-nylon 6 nanocomposites using an in-situ polymerization technique, assisted with a few minutes (3-4 minutes) of ultrasonication. Fibers were then extruded from prepared nanocomposite using a single screw extruder and stretched for draw ratio 3 and 4 respectively. Uniform dispersion was achieved due to the effect of ultrasonication and quick polymerization. DSC studies indicated the presence of interactions between nylon 6 polymer and MWNTs. SEM studies showed the nearly oriented carbon nanotubes inside the nanocomposite fibers. Improved mechanical properties were observed as a result of proper dispersion, orientation and interfacial interactions. However at higher MWNT loadings (> 0.5 %), molecular weight of the synthesized nylon 6 reduced significantly, resulting in decreased mechanical properties.
Keywords
Citation
Mhetre, S.K., Patra, P.K., Kim, Y.K. and Warner, S.B. (2007), "In-Situ Polymerized Nylon 6/Mwnt Nanocomposite Fibers", Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, Vol. 11 No. 3, pp. 35-41. https://doi.org/10.1108/RJTA-11-03-2007-B005
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2007 Emerald Group Publishing Limited