Everything That You Wanted To Know About CNT Dispersion
CNT Dispersion | Image Resource : sono-tek.com
Carbon nanotubes are not only flexible and strong but at the same time they are quite cohesive too. Dispersing them in liquids, like ethanol, oil, polymer, water and epoxy resin can be a bit difficult. This is where ultrasound is considered to be an effective medium for dispersion for discrete and single dispersed CNT. But, to understand more about the dispersion of nanotubes, you need to explore some crucial facts about them.
CNT which is primarily used in coatings, polymers, eclectically conductive fillers, adhesives, panels of automobile and other electrical equipment are quite resistive to various elements. They project their resistance against harsh chemicals, temperatures, corrosives, abrasion and extreme pressure too.
These nanotubes are of two types one is Single Walled nanotubes (SWNT) and the other is Multi Walled Nanotubes (MWNT). These tubes are available in their dry state from various reputable companies, and some even offer them in their dispersed state too for efficient CNT dispersion.
What is the Need of CNT Dispersion?
As mentioned earlier, if getting these tubes into their dispersed state is not that easy then what is the importance of its dispersion? Well, in order to achieve the maximum potential of carbon nanotubes deagglomeration is essential.
But, for effective dispersion the use of ultrasonic sound is required which can disperse them in polymers, or water at high or low concentrations. This is often done with the help of a liquid jet that streams ultra sonic cavitations, so as to overcome the covalent bonding forces of graphene in the nanotubes.
Forces that are generated ultrasonically are powerful and are assisted by micro-turbulences of ultrasound. This thus supports the chemical reaction of nanotubes with other materials, resulting into CNT dispersion. Initially, a coarse colloidal solution is achieved with this process but after a certain amount of time, the strong bond between the nanotube breaks leading to a homogenous mixture dispersed in a liquid medium.
Considering Companies for CNT Dispersion Products
By now you must have realized that dispersion of carbon nanotubes is not a simple task. There are many complicated tools, and procedures involved which means that it is a job of the experts. However, to help you out there are several companies out there that come up with these tubes that are already dispersed in liquid medium.
However, before purchasing these products there are certain factors that you need to consider:
Medium of dispersion: CNT can be dispersed in various liquid mediums that ranges from water to polymers. So, before selecting the best CNT dispersion product you should never forget to consider its medium of dispersion.
Types of products: There is a wide range of products available when it comes to dispersed nanotubes. This is the reason why it is always advised to understand your requirements and then go with the one that suits the best.
Credibility of Company: When purchasing these products from any company you have to make sure whether they are reliable or not, as this will help you to explore those companies that offer 100% genuine nanotubes dispersed in liquid mediums.