Characterization of solution-processed double walled carbon nanotubes/poly(vinylidene fluoride) nanocomposites

Dispersion of CNTs in polymers can yield impressive property enhancements at low volume fractions, thus maintaining the inherent processability of the polymer. In particular, they can improve the electromechanical response of piezoelectric polymers by lowering the actuation voltage and increasing strain and stress response. In this work, piezoelectric PVDF and DWNTs are solution-cast into films. SEM of fracture surfaces confirms good dispersion, and electrical conductivity measurements reveal a low percolation threshold (0.23 vol.-%). The effect of CNTs on storage modulus, T_c, T_m and T_g of PVDF is studied. Electromechanical strain is observed at low actuation voltages, possibly due to enhanced local electric field in the presence of DWNTs.