Tailoring the Multifunctional Properties of PA6/PA12 75/25 Conductive Polymer Composites With Carbon Nanotubes

Abstract

Conductive polymer composites (CPCs) offer a unique combination of the lightweight and processable nature of polymers with the electrical conductivity of metals, making them suitable for a range of applications, including electromagnetic interference shielding and sensors. This study investigates the multifunctional properties of polyamide 6/polyamide 12 (PA6/PA12) (75/25) CPCs filled with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The present research focuses on the morphological, rheological, thermal, and electrical properties of nanocomposites. The incorporation of MWCNTs into the PA6/PA12 blend is achieved using twin-screw extrusion, and compression molding is used to obtain nanocomposites. Different MWCNT loadings are examined to optimize the dispersion and connectivity of the conductive filler network. Morphological analysis via scanning electron microscopy reveals significant structural changes with increasing MWCNT content, changing from a sea-island morphology to a more interconnected network. Differential scanning calorimetry provides insights into the thermal behavior, showing changes in melting and crystallization behavior as well as crystallinity degree with filler loading. Rheological assessments demonstrated variations in complex viscosity, storage modulus, and loss modulus with different MWCNT contents. Electrical measurements using the Van der Pauw technique highlightes the improved conductivity of the nanocomposites. The findings underscore the potential of PA6/PA12/MWCNT nanocomposites for advanced applications such as interference shielding and sensors.