title: Tuning the mechanical properties of SWNT/nylon 6,10 composites with flexible spacers at the interface.
abstract: We have prepared nylon 6,10 nanocomposites using functionalized single wall carbon nanotubes and our interfacial in situ polycondensation method. The specific functional groups -(CH2)nCOCl [n = 4 and 9] on the sidewalls of SWNT were designed to covalently link nanotubes to the nylon matrix via alkyl segments. The composites with functionalized SWNT show significant improvements in tensile modulus, strength, and toughness relative to nylon and nylon modified with non-functionalized SWNT. The alkyl linkages at the SWNT/nylon 6,10 interface contribute significantly to improving the toughness of the composites.
authors.affiliation: Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.
authors.forename: Mohammad
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Moniruzzaman
authors.forename: Jayanta
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Chattopadhyay
authors.forename: W Edward
authors.initials: WE
authors.lastname: Billups
authors.forename: Karen I
authors.initials: KI
authors.lastname: Winey