Characterization of Polyacrylonitrile Nanocomposites by Reinforcement of Functionalized Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes

Polyacrylonitrile/functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes (PAN/f-SWCNTs) nanocomposites were synthesized by an emulsifier-free in situ polymerization process. Interaction of polyacrylonitrile with functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes was evidenced by ultraviolet-visible and Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy. The structure and morphology of nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy and high resolution transmission electron microscopy. Electrical conductivity was found to be increased by addition of f-SWCNTs. Thermogravimetric analysis study of PAN/f-SWCNT nanocomposites show more thermal resistance compared to the virgin PAN. The oxygen barrier property of PAN/f-SWCNT nanocomposites was reduced by eight times with increasing f-SWCNTs proportions.