When it comes to developing a dynamic polymer, it is important to be able to control how that material is made on a molecular level and just as important to study its performance under various conditions. One method of controlling polymer architecture is through a method called Reversible Addition Fragmentation Chain Transfer (RAFT) Polymerization, which allows the molecular weight of a material to be controlled from 1,000 g/mol to 100,000 g/mol. When the molecular weight and structure of a polymer is controlled, the functionality applications of that polymer is much greater. Polymer materials alone however, are very limited regarding mechanical and electrical properties. Recently, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been found to possess extremely attractive mechanical and electrical properties. They are either a single-walled or multi-walled U-shaped material, composed of a strongly bonded network of carbon atoms. This research project focuses on adding multiwalled CNTs to the controlled polymer matrix through Diels-Alder chemistry, to enhance dynamic properties including toughness, strength, and electrical conductivity. Once the crosslinked polymer is synthesized, these dynamic materials demonstrate self-healing properties after being cut in half and heated for a certain amount of time. The materials then undergo tensile tests. Polymers in the presence of CNTs demonstrate the ability to undergo a higher amount of stress (kPa) than those polymers absent of CNTs. This trend follows for self-healing material as well. The polymers in the presence of CNTs also have greatly enhanced electrical conductivity. Adding CNT reinforcements to enhance dynamic properties of RAFT polymers will improve material strength, toughness, and electrical conductivity.

Using multiwall carbon nanotubes to reinforce dynamically crosslinked polymers

2019 Spring National Meeting

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