Synthesis and characterization of conductive single-walled carbon nanotube based polyvinyl acetate composites

Polyvinyl acetate (PVAc)/single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) nanocomposites were successfully fabricated with varying SWCNT loadings (0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 wt%) using the solution casting method with dichlorobenzene as the solvent. The incorporation of SWCNTs into the PVAc matrix resulted in the formation of interconnected conductive networks, leading to significant enhancement in the electrical conductivity of the nanocomposites even at low nanotube concentrations. The well-dispersed SWCNTs facilitate the formation of conductive pathways within the PVAc matrix promoting efficient charge transport and enhancing the electrical conductivity of the nanocomposites. Thermal analysis revealed that the incorporation of SWCNTs into the polymer matrix, improved the thermal stability of the nanocomposites, as evidenced by the increase in thermal decomposition temperature (Td). High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) analysis confirmed the uniform dispersion of SWCNTs throughout the PVAc matrix without significant agglomeration. The developed PVAc/SWCNT nanocomposites effectively enhanced the electrical and thermal properties. These findings demonstrate the potential of PVAc/SWCNT nanocomposites for applications in conductive polymer materials, flexible electronics, and advanced functional coatings.