SiO2/MgO coated multiwalled carbon nanotubes in polymer composites

The aim of this work was to develop a talc-like inorganic coating on the surface of the multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) to facilitate their mixing into the polypropylene and polyethylene matrix. Precursor compounds such as MgCl2 · 6H2O, Mg(NO3)2 · 6H2O, MgO2C4H10 and tetraethyl-orthosilicate (TEOS) were used to cover the surface of the MWCNTs. As prepared, coverages and polymer composites were characterized by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction techniques.