Creep, recovery and dynamic mechanical properties of PEK/MWCNT nanocomposites

The creep behavior of the poly(ether-ketone) (PEK)/MWCNT nanocomposites fabricated by solution method followed by hot pressing were studied for the first time. The incorporation of MWCNT to the PEK increased significantly the Vickers microhardness, storage modulus and glass transition temperature. The microhardness and storage modulus of the nanocomposites increased up to 47 % and 67 %, respectively compared to neat PEK. Due to better dispersion of MWCNT in the matrix, the reinforcing efficiency of the nanocomposites containing lower loading of MWCNT was found better at higher temperatures too. Both creep strain and unrecovered strain (measured at 120 degrees C) of the nanocomposite containing 2.07 vol% MWCNT decreased significantly compared to the neat PEK. Thereafter further addition of MWCNT into the matrix increased both creep strain and unrecovered strain compared to that of 2.07 vol% nanocomposite.