Nanotechnology at Zyvex: Material Capabilities

The invention of carbon nanotubes has opened up a new area of high strength, high conductivity composites. Carbon nanotubes, due to their high-aspect ratio, small diameter, low weight, high mechanical strength, high thermal and stability in air, and high electrical and thermal conductivity, are recognized as the ultimate carbon fibers for high performance, multifunctional composites. However, smooth carbon nanotube surfaces (i.e., sidewalls) are incompatible with most solvents and polymers, resulting in poor nanotube dispersion in the
polymer matrix. Nanotube sidewalls are difficult to functionalize without degrading a nanotube’s desirable intrinsic properties. Unfunctionalized sidewalls produce poor adhesion and phase separation between the nanotubes and the polymer matrix. As a result, prior studies have failed to produce nanotube/epoxy composites that fully realize nanotubes’ outstanding mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties.

If you would like more information about our capabilities, please click here.

Zyvex recently discovered a new, non-wrapping approach to non-covalently engineer carbon nanotube surfaces that leads to a greater than 50-fold enhancement of solubility compared to the polymer wrapping approach of small diameter single wall nanotubes (SWNTs) and enables superior control of the relative placement of functionalities on the nanotube surfaces. This non-wrapping attachment to CNTs does not degrade the nanotubes, as other methods do. In addition, our technology works with virtually any diameter
nanotube and is inherent in the backbone of the rigid conjugated polymers.

Our goals include development of affordable, scaleable, and superior carbon nanotube processing (CNT) technologies. We are commercializing carbon nanotube technologies that offer improvements in mechanical, structural, electrical, and thermal properties of engineering plastics, ceramics, and epoxies.

Zyvex also works closely with various partners to structure a business relationship based on the needs of our client. Utilizing the recently launched Zyvex Partner Program, we develop products, develop processes and technologies, and bring them to market worldwide.