Nanocomposites of Poly(vinylidene fluoride) with Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes

We report the preparation and characterization of nanocomposites of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) with mutiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) with a wide composition range, from 0.1 {\%} to 5.0 {\%} MWCNT by weight. Effect of uniaxial orientation by zone drawing is discussed and compared with unoriented compression molded films. Room temperature two-dimensional wide angle X-ray scattering and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used for phase identification. Differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical analysis, and thermogravimetic analysis were used to study the thermal properties. Results indicate that: 1) incorporation of MWCNT in PVDF induces a small portion of beta phase crystal in the PVDF/MWCNT bulk films, while zone drawing causes a significant alpha to beta transition; 2) the thermal stability and mechanical properties are improved when MWCNT concentration increases; 3) The glass transition temperature does not change with MWCNT concentration, but a higher glass transition can be obtain by zone drawing.