Thermoplastic polyurethane/CNT nanocomposites with low electromagnetic resistance property

Multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) at 0.5 wt% to 2 wt% proportions were added to thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) synthesized with polycarbonatediol (PCDL), 4,4’-methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), and 1,3-butanediol(1,3-BDO). To formulate a new TPU-MWCNT nanocomposite, the composite was melt-blended with a twin-screw extruder. To ensure the even dispersion of MWCNTs, dispersant (ethylene acrylic ester terpolymer; Lotader AX8900) of equal weight proportion to the added MWCNTs was also added during the blending process. Studies on the mechanical and thermal properties, and melt flow experiments and phase analysis of TPU-MWCNT nanocomposites, these nanocomposites exhibit higher tensile strength and elongation at break than neat TPU. TPU-MWCNT nanocomposites with higher MWCNT content possess higher glass-transition temperature (T_g), a lower melt index, and greater hardness. Relative to neat TPU, TPU-MWCNT nanocomposites exhibit favorable mechanical properties. By adding MWCNTs, the tensile strength of the nanocomposites increased from 7.59 MPa to 21.52 MPa, and Shore A hardness increased from 65 to 81. Additionally, TPU-MWCNT nanocomposites with MWCNTs had lower resistance coefficients; the resistance coefficient decreased from 4.97 × 10¹¹ Ω/sq to 2.53 × 10⁴ Ω/sq after adding MWCNTs, indicating a conductive polymer material. Finally, the internal structure of the TPU-MWCNT nanocomposites was examined under transmission electron microscopy. When 1.5 wt% or 2 wt% of MWCNTs and dispersant were added to TPU, the MWCNTs were evenly dispersed, with increased electrical conductivity and mechanical properties. The new material is applicable in the electronics industry as a conductive polymer with high stiffness.