Preparation, structure and properties of thermoplastic olefin nanocomposites containing functionalized carbon nanotubes

The morphology and properties of multiwalled carbon nanotube modified polypropylene (PP)/ethylene–octene copolymer blends were studied. Polypropylene chains are covalently grafted onto the surface of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in order to improve their interaction with the polymer matrix. It is observed that functionalization of CNTs improves their dispersion and increases the interfacial bonding between CNTs and polymer matrix. The functionalized CNTs are selectively distributed in the continuous polypropylene phase. The size of the dispersed elastomer phase decreases after the addition of CNTs. Functionalized CNTs act as a nucleating agent and increase the crystallinity of the polypropylene. More importantly, an important increase in impact strength, stiffness and toughness can be achieved through introducing functionalized CNTs.