The effect of CNT functionalization on electrical and relaxation phenomena in MWCNT/chitosan composites

D. G. Zarate-Triviño, E. Prokhorov, G. Luna-Bárcenas, J. Mendez-Nonell, J. B. González-Campos, E. Elizalde-Peña, Josué D. Mota-Morales, P. Santiago-Jacinto, M. Terrones, S. Gómez-Salazar, S. M. Nuño-Donlucas, I. C. Sanchez

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34 Scopus citations

Abstract

The effect of the type of CNT (functionalized and non-functionalized) on the dielectric relaxation phenomena and conductivity of MWCNT/chitosan (MWCNT/CS) was investigated. Composites were prepared by the solvent cast method by homogeneously dispersing CNT into a CS matrix. FTIR analysis suggests the formation of hydrogen bonding in functionalized-MWCNT/CS whereas the CS remains unaffected in non-functionalized films. In the low conductivity region, the α-relaxation process associated with a glass transition in CS is affected by the MWCNT; the Vogel temperature increases due to a decrease of the water content. The σ-relaxation exhibits a typical Arrhenius-type temperature dependence that is independent on the moisture content. Strong interfacial interactions of functionalized-MWCNT with the CS matrix are responsible for high values of the contact resistance Rc between individual CNT. Conversely, non-functionalized MWCNTs exhibit a typical 3D percolation threshold at ca. 4 wt %.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)252-261
Number of pages10
JournalMaterials Chemistry and Physics
Volume155
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 1 2015

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Materials Science
  • Condensed Matter Physics

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