Mechanical and electrical properties of novel poly(ether ether ketone)/carbon nanotube/inorganic fullerene-like WS2 hybrid nanocomposites: Experimental measurements and theoretical predictions

The mechanical and electrical properties of poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK) based hybrid nanocomposites incorporating single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and inorganic fullerene-like tungsten disulfide (IF-WS2) nanoparticles have been extensively investigated from both experimental and theoretical point of views. Dynamic mechanical studies revealed a remarkable increase in the storage modulus and glass transition temperature of the matrix by the inclusion of both nanofillers. Moreover, tensile and flexural tests indicated significant enhancements in stiffness and strength, attributed to synergistic reinforcement effects combined with strong PEEK–SWCNT interfacial interactions. The Youngʹs modulus of these nanocomposites was fairly well predicted by simple theoretical models such as the rule of mixtures. The hybrids with SWCNT content equal or higher than 0.5 wt% exhibited semiconducting behaviour and the temperature dependence of their electrical conductivity followed a fluctuation-induced tunnelling model. Enhanced overall performance was found for composites prepared by a single-step melt-blending process compared to those manufactured in two stages. The addition of both nanoreinforcements opens up new opportunities for the development of high-performance multifunctional materials suitable for industrial applications.