Dispersion of graphite nanosheets in polymer resins via masterbatch technique

The dispersion of graphite nanosheets (GNs) in polymer matrices via the masterbatch technique was investigated. Modifying resin was added to GNs to prepare blend which is designated as the masterbatch. Such masterbatches, containing 70-80 wt % of GN filler, were blended with target polymers via melt extrusion process to prepare polymer/GN nanocomposites. The extruded nanocomposites showed characteristic conducting percolation behaviors with the percolation thresholds mainly dependent on the miscibility of the modifying resin with polymer matrix. The percolation thresholds of AS (Acrylonitrile-Styrene compolymer)/GN and high-density polyethylene (HDPE)/GN nanocomposites prepared by this technique were about 9 and 14 wt % of GN, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy and other characterizations showed that the GNs were well dispersed in AS and HDPE resins. The extrusion process and compatibility of the modifying resin with target polymer proved to be important factors for the homogeneity of the nanodispersion. (c) 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.