Non-covalent/non-specific functionalization of multi-walled carbon nanotubes with a hyperbranched polyethylene and characterization of their dispersion in a polyolefin matrix

This communication reports the non-covalent, non-specific surface functionalization of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with a hyperbranched polyethylene (HBPE). The adsorption characteristics of the HBPE macromolecule on the MWCNTs were studied through an adsorption isotherm. Partial coverage of the nanotubes, estimated to be up to 25%, can be accomplished using this functionalization approach. The treated MWCNTs exhibited significantly improved dispersion within an ethylene–octene copolymer matrix, compared to the untreated fillers.