G. Christensen, J. Yang, H. Younes, D. Lou, H. Hong, C. Tolle, C. Widener, R. Hrabe
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology,
United States
Keywords: coatings, carbon nanomaterial, base fluid, hydrogen bonding
Summary:
Coatings made from carbon nanotubes and carbon nanofibers have shown superior electrical conductivity. The unexpected results in this paper also lead to an improved way to significantly enhance the electrical conductivity. The new discovery here is that hydrogen bonding between nanotube and base fluid is the key element for good conductivity performance. The introduction of hydrogen bonding in any form into the coatings increases electrical conductivity. The coatings structure is created by the sole thickeners which are carbon nanotubes and nanofibers. This makes the coatings unique and valuable.