Synthesis and Characterization of Montmorillonite-Carbon Nanotubes Hybrid Fillers for Nanocomposites

Montmorillonite-carbon nanotubes hybrids were prepared by growth of carbon nanotubes (CNT) on five different types of iron-montmorillonite clays using the chemical vapour deposition (CVD) method. Microscopy studies revealed the presence of carbon nanotubes protruding from clay surfaces and linking the clay layers in a network structure. X-ray diffraction results showed changes in the clay interlayer spacing induced by growth of carbon nanotubes within the layers of iron-montmorillonites. The quality of the resulting carbon nanotubes was evaluated by Raman spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analyzes were used to evaluate the amount of carbon nanotubes and its thermal stability. The method used for the preparation of the iron-montmorillonites appeared to be critical for the quality and quantity of carbon nanotubes obtained in each hybrid. In a preliminary study the hybrids were used to reinforce polyurethane nanocomposite foams.