Functionalized carbon nanotubes for polymeric nanocomposites

Abstract

Functionalized carbon nanotubes are more favorable for the desired homogeneous dispersion of exfoliated nanotubes as nanoscale fillers in polymeric nanocomposites. However, the compatibility of the large amount of functional groups necessary for the nanotube functionalization with the polymeric matrices is critical to the properties and performance of the resulting nanocomposites. We have developed an approach of only using functional polymers that are structurally identical or maximally similar to the matrix polymers in the functionalization and solubilization of carbon nanotubes. Several representative examples are highlighted, and issues concerning the characterization and evaluation of the polymeric nanocomposites thus obtained are discussed.