Structural and physico-chemical properties of electroactive polyamide/multi-walled carbon nanotubes nanocomposites

Electroactive Polyamide (EPA)/Multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) nanocomposites (NCs) have been synthesized by in-situ oxidative coupling polymerization of EPA in the presence of MWCNT using ammonium persulphate as an oxidant. Initially, the structural and physical properties were confirmed by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Field emission scanning electron microscope, Transmission electron microscopy, Surface roughness, Water contact angle and Water absorption method. The average roughness value and hydrophobicity and diffusion coefficient of EPA/MWCNT NCs were increased and decreased with addition of MWCNT respectively. The performance of EPA and EPA/MWCNT NCs as protective coating against corrosion of 201 stainless steel was analyzed using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization technique. The result shows excellent anticorrosion properties.