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Technology
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have physical properties that exceed those of commonly used materials. With a strength 16 times that of stainless steel and with a thermal conductivity five times that of copper, CNTs are obvious choices for creating a new class of composite materials. Their inclusion in a polymer, ceramic, or metal matrix holds the potential to boost the host material’s electrical, mechanical, or thermal values by orders of magnitude, well above the performance possible with traditional fillers such as carbon black or ultra fine metal powders.
Although CNTs have exceptional physical properties, incorporating them into other materials has been inhibited by the surface chemistry of carbon. Problems such as phase separation, aggregation, poor dispersion within a matrix, and poor adhesion to the host matrix must be overcome.
Zyvex Performance Materials (ZPM) is the leader in overcoming these problems by developing a new surface treatment technology that optimizes the interaction between CNTs and the host matrix. This technology exfoliates, debundles, and allows for uniform dispersion that creates a multi-functional bridge between the CNT sidewalls and the host material. It is effective on single-wall nanotubes (SWNTs), multi-wall nanotubes (MWNTs), and carbon nanotube fibers (CNFs) and has proven useful for other nanomaterials such as nanoclays.
ZPM patented technology resolves the technical issues associated with using carbon nanotubes. This proprietary technology successfully transfers the nanotubes’ intrinsic electrical and mechanical properties to the host polymers. This functionalization technology also provides the solubility and polymer compatibility necessary for commercial processing.
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