Molecular Disorder in Prestrained Nanocomposites: Effects of Processing on Durability of Thermally-Active Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate | PyChol | Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes

In situ temperature-resolved Near-edge X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (NEXAFS) measurements were performed on thermo-active ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) – multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT) composites 12 months following synthesis, and compared with spectra acquired shortly after synthesis to examine aging effects on non-covalent interactions. Room temperature spectra revealed no difference between unstrained and strained composites, suggesting relaxation. Further, energy shifts in π* C=C resonances indicated a change in π–π interactions between MWCNT walls and chemical dispersant, supported also by AFM phase imaging. Temperature-resolved NEXAFS analysis showed a lack of interaction between nanotubes and polymeric chains, suggesting the chemical dispersant unlatched from MWCNT walls. The extent of this effect is finally quantified through a comparative study of spectral trends.