LAUSR

Abstract Herein, the synthesis of a novel highly-oxidized carbon nanotubes (OMWCNT) modified by the Emeraldine salt (ES)-based polyaniline (PANI) nanofibers (NFs) was carried out. The zinc doped OMWCNT-PANI particles were synthesized to achieve novel nanoparticles, enhancing the thermal/mechanical hallmarks and features of the epoxy nano-composite coatings. Various characterization methods were utilized to affirm the triumphant deposition of the Zn-linked PANI nanofibers on the OMWCNT network. The DMTA, TGA, and Raman examinations were applied to delineate the prepared nano-composite films' thermal/mechanical characteristics. The results disclosed that the inclusion of 0.15 wt% of OMWCNT-PANI-Zn into the epoxy matrix has a substantial efficacy on the thermomechanical properties. That is to say, the Tg, storage modulus, cross-linking density, and tensile strength increased about 10.5°C, 17%, 205%, and 137%, respectively, compared with the Neat/EP coating. Additionally, the remaining weight of 14% for OMWCNT-PANI-Zn/EP at 600°C evidenced the significant epoxy composite thermal stability enhancement.