SWNT-Filled Thermoplastic and Elastomeric Composites Prepared by Miniemulsion Polymerization

Abstract

SWNT-filled polystyrene (SWNT-PS) and styrene−isoprene (SWNT-SI) composites prepared by miniemulsion polymerization showed distinctive physical features such as uniform black coloration, high solubility in toluene as well as in tetrahydrofuran (THF), and semiconductor to ohmic electrical behavior. Raman spectra for both hybrid materials suggested a reduced vibrational freedom of the polymer chains as a consequence of the nanotube incorporation. An adsorbed polymer layer on the nanotube bundles contributes to a better dispersion of the inorganic nanoreinforcement.