Hansen Solubility Parameters and Swcnt Composites

Polymeric composites with carbon nanotubes have still not explored the potential expected from the excellent mechanical properties of the carbon nanotubes and their large aspect ratio. Dispersion of the nanotubes within the polymeric matrix is difficult. SWCNTs agglomerates in bundles and a good dispersion of carbon nanotubes within the polymeric matrix is crucial in order to receive the optimal properties of the composite. A good dispersion will assure a better transfer of strains to the carbon nanotubes, because of an improved aspect ratio and higher compressive stresses on the CNT from the surrounding matrix. These compressive stresses will increase the friction force between the matrix and the nanotube. The compressive stresses come from the thermal contraction of the polymeric matrix when cooling below the melting point or the glass temperature [1].