Functionalization of multiwalled carbon nanotubes by reversible addition fragmentation chain-transfer polymerization

In this study, a new way was used to chemically synthesize polymer-connected MWNT nanocomposites. Reversible addition fragmentation chain-transfer (RAFT) agent was successfully grafted onto the surface of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs). Polystyrene (PS) chains were successfully grafted from the surface of MWNTs via RAFT process by using RAFT agent immobilized on MWNTs. FTIR, XPS and TGA were used to determine chemical structure and the grafted PS quantities of the resulting products. TEM images of the samples provide direct evidence for the formation of a core-shell nanostructure, i.e. the MWNT coated with polymer layer and the solubility be improved.