Synthesis and properties of the amino‐functionalized multiple‐walled carbon nanotubes/polyimide nanocomposites

Abstract The 1,6‐hexanediamine‐functionalized multi‐walled carbon nanotubes(a‐MWNTs)/polyimide(PI) nanocomposite films were prepared through in‐situ polymerization followed by mixture casting, evaporation, and thermal imidization. To increase the compatibility of carbon nanotubes with the matrix polyimide, a‐MWNTs was used as the filler. According to the results, a‐MWNTs were homogeneously dispersed in the nanocomposite films. With the incorporation of a‐MWNTs, the mechanical properties of the resultant films were improved due to the strong chemical bonding and interfacial interaction between a‐MWNTs and 4,4′‐oxydiphthalic anhydride(ODPA)/4,4′‐Oxydianiline(ODA) polyimide matrix. The thermal stability of the a‐MWNTs/polyimide nanocomposite was also improved by the addition of a‐MWNTs. The electrical tests showed a percolation threshold at about 0.85 vol% and the electrical properties were increased sharply. POLYM. COMPOS., 2009. © 2008 Society of Plastics Engineers