Carbon nanotubes reinforced nylon-6 composite prepared by simple melt-compounding

MWNTs/PA6 nanocomposites were prepared with enhanced overall mechanical properties by simple melt-compounding. Mechanical tests show that, compared with neat PA6, the tensile modulus, the tensile strength, and the hardness of the composite are greatly improved by about 115%, 120%, and 67%, respectively, with incorporating only 1 wt% MWNTs. SEM observation of the fracture surfaces of the composite indicated that a homogeneous dispersion of MWNTs throughout PA6 matrix and a strong interfacial adhesion between MWNTs and the matrix were successfully achieved, which are responsible for the significant enhancements in mechanical properties.