Polycarbonate carbon nanofiber composites

Carbon nanofiber (CNF) composites have the potential for creating inexpensive, semiconducting polymers. These composites require a homogeneous dispersion within the polymer. Many groups have focused on high shear methods such as twin screw extrusion. Although high shear methods produce a homogeneous dispersion, the aspect ratio of the nanofibers is reduced by the mechanical force. In this report, we present results for low shear composite formation via in situ polymerization of cyclic oligomeric carbonates. The composites were characterized by thermal gravimetric analysis, electrical conductivity, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The composites exhibit minimal aggregation of the carbon nanofibers even at high weight percents. The polycarbonate/CNF composites exhibit an electrical conductivity percolation threshold of 6.3 wt% which is higher compared with similar CNF composites. The composites also show an increase in thermal stability of 40 °C as the CNF loading increases from 0 to 9 wt%.