Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Research and Development Authority

Stichting Dutch Polymer Institute

Oren Regev

Cornelis Eme Koning

Joachim Loos

Rachel Yerushalmi-Rozen

Carbon nanotube reinforced polymers include a polymer and carbon nanotubes reinforcing the polymer. The carbon nanotube reinforced polymer exhibits a conductivity percolation threshold of less than 10&#x3a9;/cm at a carbon nanotube content of 1.5 wt. % and less. The polymer may be selected from a polyamide or a polystyrene based polymer. In certain embodiments, the carbon nanotube content is between 0.1 to 1.5 wt. %, and the reinforced polymer will have a percolation threshold at a carbon nanotube content of less than 0.5 wt. %.

Carbon nanotube reinforced polymer and process for preparing the same

The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of a carbon nanotubes reinforced polymer. The process comprises the following steps: a) contacting carbon nanotubes in an aqueous medium with a water-soluble component, comprising either a water-soluble first polymer or a water-soluble surfactant; b) mixing the resulting product from step A) with either an aqueous latex of a second polymer, or with (a) water-soluble precursor(s) of a second polymer; c) removing water from the so obtained mixture; d) heating the product from step C) to a temperature at which the second polymer flows or where the second polymer is formed from out of its precursor(s); and e) processing and/or solidifying the product of step D) into a desired form. As a result the carbon nanotubes retain essentially their original aspect ratio. As a result, mechanical and conductivity properties are improved.

A method is provided for exfoliation of carbon nanotubes and for the preparation of a stable aqueous suspension thereof containing dispersed, essentially single tubes, using a water-soluble polymeric material. A powder of carbon nanotubes is further provided, that can be re-dispersed to form a stable suspension. The nanotubes can be used in electronics, printing, coatings, thin layers, molecular machines, and for the production of composite materials.

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Eindhoven, Netherlands

Oren Regev