Functionality comparisons of single and multi-walled nanotubes with graphitic fibers

Abstract

The large surface area of inert carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and carbon fibers (CFs) renders insufficient interaction between the CNTs and CFs with the organic matrix. The filler-matrix interactions consequently become important to ensure sufficient wetting and filler dispersion in the matrix. The optimized functionalization method for both the CNTs and CFs will improve the viability of the entities for applications. In this report, we present a comparison between single-walled, multi-walled CXTs and pitch-based CFs in terms of their susceptibility to oxidation. The effects of functionalization reactions and extent of reaction are analyzed in terms of morphology, destruction of graphitization and hydrophobicity of the CXTs and CFs. © World Scientific Publishing Company.