Effect of encapsulated SWNT on the mechanical properties of melt mixed PA12/SWNT composites

Styrene maleic anhydride copolymer (SMA) encapsulated single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNT) are melt mixed with PA12 in order to disperse SWNT more homogeneously. The mechanism is found to be a reactive coupling between amine end groups of PA12 and maleic anhydride functionality of SMA during melt mixing of PA12 with SMA modified SWNT. This leads next to a better dispersion to an enhanced interfacial adhesion between PA12 and SWNT as indicated by enhanced rheological, dynamic mechanical, and tensile properties of the PA12/SWNT composites.