Biodegradable polymers as matrices for electroconductive composites

Abstract

In this manuscript the results of experimental studies of the properties of composite materials based on lignocellulosic (LC) and poly(methylmethacrylate) matrices filled with electrolytic copper powder are presented. Volume fractions of metal fillers in composite materials and tested samples were varied in the range of 0.5-29.8% (v/v), and the samples were prepared by compression - cold pressing and molding. Characterization included examination of the influence of particle size and morphology on the conductivity and percolation threshold of the composites using a variety of testing techniques: SEM, TGA, AFM. Thermal analysis of the prepared composites showed the improvement of the thermal characteristics of the composites. This was due to the presence of the metallic fillers, which are very good thermal conductors, hence accumulating the heat emitted during TGA measurements primary to matrix, whether it was lignocellulosic or PMMA. Presence of three dimensional conductive pathways was confirmed.