Melt process and performance of multi-walled carbon nanotubes reinforced LDPE composites

Purpose - To develop a method for the preparation of multi-walled carbon nanotube reinforced low density polyethylene (LDPE) composites (MWNTs/LDPE), based on ultrasonic vibration, solution casting and melt mixing. Design/methodology/approach - The preparation for MWNTs/LDPE composites was carried out by vibration of carbon nanotubes (CNT), solution casting and melt mixing for MWNTs and LDPE. The physical chemical properties of the composites were characterised using a variety of techniques including scanning electron microscopy, resistance and tensile measurement. Findings - It was found that the preparation method reported had significantly improved the dispersion of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) in LDPE matrix, resulting in the improvement of tensile strength of the composite. The percolation of MWNTs in LDPE matrix was between 10 and 15 wt% (10¹⁶-10⁸ Ω cm). Practical implications - The preparation method reported addressed a problem concerning the dispersion of CNT in polymer matrix. The method developed provided a practical and effective solution to such a problem. Originality/value - The preparation method for MWNTs/LDPE composites involving vibration of CNT, solution casting and melt mixing for MWNTs and LDPE was novel. The method could be adapted for use in industrial scale.