Enhancing electromechanical properties of a lignin-based multifunctional composite through chemical reactive blending with functionalized carbon nanotubes

Electrical conductivity in nanocomposites is a complex phenomenon governed by a myriad number of physical and chemical factors. However, the interrelationships between segmental dynamics and its effect on electrical conductivity is less understood. Herein we create a solvent free nanocomposite synthesized in a single step process. Facile covalent bonding is achieved between functionalized nanotubes and the lignin-based matrix using small molecule coupling agents. The covalent bonding and shearing are hypothesized to lead to a breaking of the larger agglomerates, leading to excellent dispersion and thereby percolation at much lower concentrations than can be achieved by traditional blending. We show that while the above process can be utilized to achieve excellent dispersion and thus percolation and conductivity, segmental dynamics also plays a key role in dictating electrical conductivity.