Multi-method analysis of multiwall carbon nanotube polymer nanocomposite samples after photodegradation

Published

June 16, 2014

Author(s)

Elijah Petersen, Thomas F. Lam, Justin Gorham, Keana Scott, Chris Long, Renu Sharma, Li Piin Sung, James Alexander Liddle, Tinh Nguyen

Abstract

Nanomaterials can be used as nanofillers to enhance the properties of polymeric materials. However, the effect of weathering on nanocomposites and the potential for nanomaterial release is not yet well understood. Multiple analytical methods are needed to address these issues. Multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT) epoxy nanocomposite materials at two concentrations (3.5 % and 0.72 %) were exposed to carefully controlled ultraviolet (UV) doses (equivalent of up to ≈ 4 years in Florida). These samples were analyzed with a suite of optimized gravimetric, spectroscopic, and microscopic techniques. The presence of MWCNTs at both loadings retarded the photodegradation of the nanocomposite samples, and multiple techniques showed the accumulation of MWCNTs on the sample surface. The analytical methods developed in this study provide important information on the life-cycle impacts of polymer nanocomposites.

Proceedings Title

Nanoparticle Release during Life Cycle of Polymer Nanocomposites and Consumer Products

Conference Dates

June 16-19, 2014

Conference Location

National Harbor , MD, US

Conference Title

Nanotech Conference

Pub Type

Conferences

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Keywords

carbon nanotube, polymer nanocomposite, UV, degradation, analytical methods.

Citation

Petersen, E. , Lam, T. , Gorham, J. , Scott, K. , Long, C. , Sharma, R. , Sung, L. , Liddle, J. and Nguyen, T. (2014), Multi-method analysis of multiwall carbon nanotube polymer nanocomposite samples after photodegradation, Nanoparticle Release during Life Cycle of Polymer Nanocomposites and Consumer Products , National Harbor , MD, US, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=915812 (Accessed October 8, 2025)