Effect of HNTs and Organically Modified HNTs on the Properties of PEEK / LCP Blends in Presence of Tungsten Sulphide

Halloysite nanotube (HNT-OH) was modified organically using N-(2-aminoethyl)-3- aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APTMS).This modification converts HNT-OH directly to HNT-NH2 and improves its dispersion in polar polymer matrix. We have also prepared tungsten sulphide powder and introduced it into the Poly Ether Ether Ketone /Liquid Crystalline Polymer blend along with modified Halloysite nanotube (MHNT). All the batches of this nanocomposite were prepared by melt blending. Dispersion of modified HNT in PEEK/LCP matrix was shown by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and also by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). FESEM image shows a better fibril formation of LCP phase within PEEK matrix in presence of MHNT. Thermogravimetric analysis shows that the higher thermal stability of PEEK/LCP in presence of modified HNT. Storage modulus, tensile modulus and tensile strength were increased significantly with the incorporation of MHNTs. Tungsten sulphide powder acts as a lubricant here, which increases the high temperature processing properties of the blend.