Plasma functionalization of bucky paper and its composite with phenylethynyl-terminated polyimide

Abstract The present study presents the fabrication and performance of plasma functionalized bucky paper reinforced phenylethynyl-terminated polyimide (PETI). Multi-wall carbon nanotubes in the form of bucky papers are functionalized using He/O 2 plasma, and the effect is revealed by XPS and wettability test, showing improved hydrophilicity on the bucky paper surface. For the nanocomposites made with PETI, the functionalized sample exhibits a 30% increase in tensile strength and 125% increase in tensile modulus compared with those of the untreated samples, indicating improved adhesion between the bucky paper and PETI. The thermal properties of the composites are unchanged before and after the plasma treatment. No substantial mass loss is observed below 500 °C in oxygen, indicating high temperature resistance of the composite.