Comparative Study of Mechanical Properties of Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes and Functionalized Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes/Poly Aryl Ether Ketone Nanocomposites

The present study deals with the effect of Multiwall Carbon Nanotube (MWCNT) and its functionalized (carboxyl and amine) MWCNT on the mechanical properties of Poly Aryl Ether Ketone (PAEK) polymer composites. The incorporation of nanomaterials into polymer matrices has garnered considerable attention due to the potential for enhancing material performance. The existing literature lacks in providing a thorough understanding of the intricate impacts of MWCNTs on PAEK composites, motivating the need for this research. The study examines the varied concentrations of MWCNT and functionalized (carboxyl and amine) MWCNT as 0.25, 0.5 and 0.75 weight percentages. These composites were prepared using a twin-screw extruder via the melt compounding method. The specimens were meticulously prepared through injection molding, adhering to American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. Samples were assessed for tensile strength, impact strength, flexural strength, heat deflection temperature, hardness, and density. The key findings reveal a significant and gradual improvement in tensile strength, impact strength, flexural strength, and heat deflection temperature up to a 0.5% filler loading, followed by a reduction at higher concentrations of filler in PAEK matrices. Remarkably, the most notable improvements are observed with amine functionalized MWCNT. These findings highlight the potential of functionalized MWCNTs in enhancing the mechanical properties of PAEK polymer composites. The implications of this study offer valuable insights for material scientists, engineers, and industries aiming to enhance the performance of PAEK-based materials. The identified results provide advanced polymer composites for specific applications.