MWNT reinforced melamine-formaldehyde containing alpha-cellulose

Multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWNT) were used as reinforcement for melamine-formaldehyde (MF). They were oxidised in HNO3/ H2SO4 mixture and analyzed by means of X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). Two anionic surfactants: sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) and sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (NaDDBS) were used to assist the dispersion of nanotubes. The MWNT content was varied from 0 to 1.0 wt%, and the influence of nanotubes on viscosity (flow curves) was measured. The viscosity of SDS-assisted aqueous solution of MF containing a small amount (0.1 wt%) of MWNT is low, and thus promising towards manufacturing processes. A film stacking-like manufacturing route was adapted to prepare ternary MWNT/cellulose/MF thin composite layers. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Light microscopy (LM) were used to observe dispersion. The addition of 0.1 wt% MWNT assisted with SDS increased the storage modulus and tensile strength by 50%. Conventional calculations of the Young's modulus were made. Values underestimating the modulus were found. The observed discrepancy was attributed to polymer chain immobilisation as a result of crosslinking.