Abstract
The solution method was used to create polysulfone/carbon nanotubes composites. The effect of three solvents (NMP, DMF, and THF), treatments (nitric acid and ethanol) and surfactants (ODA and OCA) on CNT/ solvent stability was investigated. NMP and DMF resulted in improved stability compared to THF, and all CNT treatments improved stability. Four composites were produced with CNT loadings of 0—5 wt%: as-received CNT and nitric acid treated in THF, as-received CNT and OCA surfactant CNT in NMP. Optical, TEM, and electrical percolation measurements confirmed the role of CNT/solvent stability on the final composite dispersion. Tensile testing and thermal analysis confirmed the presence of residual solvent in all samples.
