Spectroscopic Investigations on Polypropylene -- Carbon Nanofibers Composites

ORAL

Abstract

Nanocomposites were obtained by high-shear mixing of isotactic polypropylene (Marlex HLN-120-01; Philips Sumika Polypropylene Company) with various amounts of vapor grown carbon nanofibers (PR-24AG; Pyrograf Products, Inc) by utilizing a HAAKE Rheomix at 65 rpm and 180 $^{\circ}$C for 9 min followed by an additional mixing at 90 rpm for 5 min. Composites loaded with various amounts of vapor grown carbon nanofibers have been prepared. Wide angle X-Ray scattering investigations focus on the effect of carbon nanofibers on the crystalline phases of polypropylene and on the overall crystallinity degree of the polymeric matrix. Raman spectroscopy analysis concentrates on D and G bands. X-band electron spin resonance investigations aim at a better understanding of the purity of carbon nanofibers and of the ratio between conducting and paramagnetic.

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Authors

  • Mircea Chipara

    The University of Texas Pan American

  • Brian Jones

    University of Nebraska Lincoln, University of Nebraska, Lincoln

  • Karen Lozano

    The University of Texas Pan American

  • John R. Villareal

    The University of Texas Pan American

  • Alin Cristian Chipara

    The University of Texas Pan American

  • Anna Hernandez

    The University of Texas Pan American

  • Magdalena Dorina Chipara

    The University of Texas Pan American

  • David J. Sellmyer

    University of Nebraska Lincoln, Department of Physics and Astronomy and NCMN, University of Nebraska, University of Nebraska, Lincoln