Conducting properties of single-wall carbon nanotubes in composites based on polystyrene

Composite films were synthesized by radical copolymerization of styrene with methacrylate groups on the surface of modified single-walled carbon nanotubes. Mechanical grinding and reforming of films on the electrode led to a decrease in the electrical resistance values by two magnitude orders. This effect was observed when measuring the current-voltage characteristics in both sandwich and planar structures. This decrease in the electrical resistance of the composite films is likely due to the disintegration and reorientation of carbon nanotubes, as well as the creation of mechanical stresses in them as a result of covalent bonding to the polymer matrix, which could affect the electronic structure of carbon inclusions.