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Functionalization of Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotubes in Chemical Solution of H2SO4/HNO3 and its Dispersion in Different Media

Authors :
Nor Shamimi Shaari
Napisah Sapiai
Aidah Jumahat
Muhammad Hussain Ismail
Source :
Materials Science Forum. 882:103-107
Publication Year :
2017
Publisher :
Trans Tech Publications, Ltd., 2017.

Abstract

The usage of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as reinforcement has been limited due to difficulties associated with dispersion of MWCNTs during the processing and poor adhesion between MWCNTs and matrix. In this paper, the effect of chemical functionalization with strong acid on the dispersion of MWCNTs were studied. The functionalization of MWCNTs were performed in chemical solution of sulphuric acid (H2SO4) and nitric acid (HNO3) with ratio of 3:1 and prepared at 80°C for 4 hours. The pristine MWCNTs (PMWCNTs) and acid treated MWCNTs (AMWCNTs) were analyzed using TEM, XRD, FTIR and Pycnometer density. The effect of dispersion of PMWCNTs and AMWCNTs was studied in three different matrices which are in aqueous media (distilled water), metal matrix and polymer matrix. The XRD results determined that the impurities in pristine MWCNTs such as NiZn3 have been removed after the purification process. The presence of carboxylic acid (-COOH) and hydroxyl (-OH) functional groups were determined using FT-IR. Based on the dispersion analysis in aqueous media, PMWCNTs were poor in suspension stability. While, the TEM images showed less agglomeration of the AMWCNTs compared to PMWCNTs and obtained a uniform dispersion in metal matrix (Cu) and polymer (epoxy) matrix composites.

Details

ISSN :
16629752
Volume :
882
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
Materials Science Forum
Accession number :
edsair.doi...........b7b6550a3c874cb17c1637ff30d0a629
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/msf.882.103