Incorporation of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes into Electrospun Softwood Kraft Lignin-Based Fibers

Author： Teng Nai-Yu Dallmeyer Ian Kadla John F.

ISSN： 0277-3813

Source： Journal of Wood Chemistry and Technology, Vol.33, Iss.4, 2013-12, pp. : 299-316

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Abstract

Intrinsic properties such as mechanical and electrical conductive properties make carbon nanotubes an ideal nanofiller for reinforcement of polymer materials. In this study, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were suspended in various fractionated softwood kraft lignin (SKL) concentrations and electrospun into fibers. Solutions prepared from F_1–3SKL suspensions contained aggregated MWNTs, which led to spraying and droplet accumulation during fiber formation. By contrast, MWNT suspensions prepared with F₄SKL were well dispersed and readily electrospun into fibers. Increasing the F₄SKL concentration in the MWNTs’ suspension resulted in better electrospinnability. Adding 10 mg of F₄SKL enabled as much as 18.6 mg of MWNTs (or 6 wt% based on fiber weight) to be dispersed and electrospun into fibers. The resulting MWNT-reinforced SKL fibers were then thermostabilized and carbonized and the resulting carbon fibers characterized. Unfortunately, the mechanical properties of the fibers did not improve with incorporation of MWNTs. However, the electrical conductivity increased from 2.3 to 3.0 S/cm when incorporating 6 wt% MWNTs into the fibers.