Highly conductive polypropylene nanocomposites containing copper nanowire

Highly thermally and electrically conductive polypropylene (PP) nanocomposites were prepared by incorporating high-aspect-ratio copper nanowires (CuNW). Surface treatment of the CuNW was important for dispersion and compatibility. A CuNW network was first embedded in a PP matrix, followed by removal of the protective layer on CuNW. At a volume fraction of 2.5%, the thermal conductivity was enhanced by 234% compared to the neat PP. The electrical conductivity significantly increased to 500 S/cm, which is 16 orders of magnitude greater than the neat PP. This PP nanocomposite is attractive for housings for electronic devices and antistatic packaging.