Strategy of tailoring the interface between multiwalled carbon nanotube and fluoroelastomer

To fabricate multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)/tetrafluoroethylene‐propylene elastomer (TFEP) nanocomposite, the surface architecture of MWCNTs was tailored based on TFEP molecular structure. Silane coupling agent (SC) and fluorocarbon surfactant (FC) were separately used to improve the interaction and compatibility between MWCNTs and polymer matrix. The CC group of SC can participate in the crosslinking reaction of TFEP, which results in the formation of covalent connection between MWCNTs and matrix. The fluorine atom in FC has better compatibility with tetrafluoroethylene segment of TFEP, which effectively promotes the compatibility between MWCNTs and matrix. The organic modifiers were successfully attached to the surface of MWCNTs, as verified by the results of infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analyses, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectrum. Owing to functionalization of surface, the dispersions of MWCNTs were obviously improved. A comprehensive upgrade of mechanical property was achieved, and the elasticity of fluoroelastomer was not deteriorated. Meanwhile, the resistance to medium ageing performance property presented a significant advantage. The effect of interface tailoring was verified by the superiority of morphology and properties. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:257–263, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers