Evaluation of mechanical properties of functionalized carbon nanotube reinforced PMMA polymer nanocomposite

Abstract In this paper, the multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) were functionalized by chemical treatment for surface modification to create a better interfacial adhesion between polymer and nanotubes. Functionalization has proved to be an effective method to modulate different physical and chemical properties of the carbon nanotubes, facilitates dispersion and processing. The goal of this study is to determine the mechanical properties of the nanocomposite using experimental methods. Various mechanical tests such as tensile strength and impact strength were carried out to study the effect of functionalized filler content in the nanotube-reinforced Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanocomposite. The surface morphology of MWCNT and of the fractured surface of the fabricated MWCNT/PMMA were analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM).