Influence of CNT/graphite Hybrid Structures Obtained by Microwave Synthesis on Electro- and Thermophysical Properties of Elastomeric Composites

Abstract

The results of the study of electrically conductive polymer composite with filler based on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) grown on the surface of graphite (CNT/graphite) are presented. To obtain a hybrid CNT/graphite filler, the technology of synthesis using ultrahigh frequency (microwave synthesis) was used. The morphology of CNT/graphite was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). According to the SEM results, it follows that CNT/graphite has common structural bonds, which is expressed in the direct contact of CNTs with the graphite plane. The structural properties of the CNT/graphite hybrid filler significantly reduce the interfacial thermal and electrical resistance, and the composites show both high thermal and electrical conductivity (up to 0,71 W/(m∙°C) and 0,37 cm/m, respectively). The granulometric composition, as well as thermogravometry (TG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies of the composite with and without
CNT/graphite hybrid structure additives were carried out. According to the results of TG and DSC study, the use of CNTs and reduced graphene oxide in the composite improves the thermal stability and increases the thermal degradation temperature of the conductive composite.