Spectroscopic Investigations on Polypropylene -- Carbon Nanofibers Composites

ORAL

Abstract

Nanocomposites were obtained by high-shear mixing of isotactic polypropylene (Marlex HLN-120-01; Philips Sumika Polypropylene Company) with various amounts of vapor grown carbon nanofibers (PR-24AG; Pyrograf Products, Inc) by utilizing a HAAKE Rheomix at 65 rpm and 180 $^{\circ}$C for 9 min followed by an additional mixing at 90 rpm for 5 min. Composites loaded with various amounts of vapor grown carbon nanofibers have been prepared. Wide angle X-Ray scattering investigations focus on the effect of carbon nanofibers on the crystalline phases of polypropylene and on the overall crystallinity degree of the polymeric matrix. Raman spectroscopy analysis concentrates on D and G bands. X-band electron spin resonance investigations aim at a better understanding of the purity of carbon nanofibers and of the ratio between conducting and paramagnetic.

*ESR measurements were performed within the laboratory of Professor Andrzej Rajca from the Chemistry Department of the University of Nebraska Lincoln.

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Authors

  • Mircea Chipara

    • The University of Texas Pan American

  • Brian Jones

    • University of Nebraska Lincoln
    • University of Nebraska, Lincoln

  • Karen Lozano

    • The University of Texas Pan American

  • John R. Villareal

    • The University of Texas Pan American

  • Alin Cristian Chipara

    • The University of Texas Pan American

  • Anna Hernandez

    • The University of Texas Pan American

  • Magdalena Dorina Chipara

    • The University of Texas Pan American

  • David J. Sellmyer

    • University of Nebraska Lincoln
    • Department of Physics and Astronomy and NCMN, University of Nebraska
    • University of Nebraska, Lincoln