Preparation of Z n O/MWCNT/PP composite film and its application as multifunctional protective film

ZnO/MWCNT/PP composite films were prepared by melt extrusion. The films were characterized by DSC, TGA, Reflectance, XRD, and SEM. Composite films showed higher crystallization temperature, increased thermal stability and lower reflectance compared to neat PP film. SEM showed ZnO nano particles dispersed in continuous three dimensional network of MWCNT in the composite films. The composite films showed antibacterial and antifungal property, increase in limiting oxygen index and lower combustion toxicity compared to neat PP film. The composite films showed IR radiation absorbing property which is useful in camouflage applications and very good antistatic property as shown by fast discharge of static charge generated on the film surface. The study shows that the composite films can be used as multifunctional protective films where protection from multiple hazards is required. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:157–170, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers