Characterization of Functionalized Low Density Polyethylene/Polyaniline Nano Fiber Composite

Nano composite based on polyaniline (PANI)
nano fibers filler and chromic acid functionalized low
density polyethylene (LDPE) matrix with biocompatibility
and low percolation threshold value was prepared via twin
screw extrusion process. Density measurement, Fourier
Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Field Emission
Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray
spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray crystallography (XRD),
Brunauer, Emmett and Teller analysis (BET), Thermo
Gravimetric (TGA), Differential Scanning Calorimetery
(DSC) and Four-Probe Conductivity measurements are
reported. As low density polyethylene functionalization
renders LDPE more biocompatible, it also facilitates
conductivity due to carbon carbon double bonds, sulfonic,
and carbonyl group moieties. PANI nano fibers also assist
in charge transfer mechanism of resultant composite.
Overall results indicate the formation of highly stable
nanocomposite materials, with good physiochemical
properties and conductivity. The resultant blend may prove
beneficial as a low cost biocompatible and electrically
simulated nerve tissue repair scaffolds.