Activation of boron nitride nanotubes and their polymer composites for improving mechanical performance

通讯作者地址: Zhou, SJ (通讯作者),Xiamen Univ, Dept Chem, Coll Chem & Chem Engn, Xiamen 361005, Peoples R China 地址: 1. Xiamen Univ, Dept Chem, Coll Chem & Chem Engn, Xiamen 361005, Peoples R China 2. Xiamen Univ, State Key Lab Phys Chem Solid Surface, Xiamen 361005, Peoples R China 电子邮件地址: sldeng@xmu.edu.cnBoron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) are inappropriate for further chemical derivatization because of their chemical inertness. We demonstrate covalent activation of chemically inert BNNTs by isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) to form isocyanate group (NCO)-terminated BNNT precursors with an 'NCO anchor' ready for further functionalization. As identified by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, a number of molecules or polymers with -COOH, -OH or -NH(2) groups are readily attached to the activated IPDI-BNNTs. The IPDI-BNNT-involving polymer composites have shown mechanical properties are considerably improved due to the good dispersibility of IPDI-BNNTs in the polymer matrix and the strong interfacial interactions between BNNTs and polymers. The methodology reported here provides a promising method to promote the chemical reactivity of BNNTs and covalently modify polymer nanocomposites with improved mechanical performance.973 Program 2011-CB935901 NSFC 21021061 21031004 21171140 Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities 201112101