Tailoring thermal and electrical conductivity of melt‐spun poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) fibers via carbon nanotube incorporation

Abstract Antistatic fibers play a crucial role in functional textiles, often incorporating carbon‐based materials like carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to achieve conductivity. However, CNTs tend to aggregate, which is due to strong Van der Waals forces, negatively affecting polymer mechanical properties and dispersibility. This study explores the incorporation of CNTs into poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT) fibers via twin‐screw extrusion and melt spinning. The effects of CNT content on thermal stability, crystallization, and mechanical properties were evaluated. Differential scanning calorimetry revealed that CNTs acted as nucleating agents, increasing the crystallization temperature ( T c ) by 47.8°C. Thermogravimetric analysis showed enhanced thermal stability, with T d‐5% increasing to 368.6°C at 2 wt% CNT. Rheological studies confirmed improved viscosity and storage modulus, indicating restricted polymer chain mobility. Mechanical testing demonstrated that Young's modulus and yield strength increased with CNT content, while elongation at break decreased due to restricted polymer chain mobility. Electrical conductivity tests indicated a significant drop in surface resistivity from 10 7 to 10 2 Ω/sq at CNT concentrations above 2 wt%. Additionally, thermal drawing improved fiber strength, with fiber stress increasing from 0.378 to 1.63 gf/den at a draw ratio of 3. x‐ray diffraction confirmed that CNTs did not alter the PBAT crystal structure but enhanced crystallinity. Scanning electron microscopy revealed smooth fiber surfaces with uniform dispersion. The study concludes that CNT incorporation enhances PBAT fiber conductivity and strength while maintaining good processability, making it a promising approach for sustainable antistatic applications. Highlights Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) improve conductivity but weaken mechanical properties. Poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT)/CNT fibers made via twin‐screw extrusion and melt spinning. Thermal drawing boosts strength by adjusting draw ratio. CNTs enhance T c as nucleating agents in PBAT. Fiber strength rises from 0.378 to 1.63 gf/den after drawing. CNTs boost conductivity but reduce mechanical strength. PBAT/CNT fibers made by twin‐screw extrusion and melt spinning. Thermal drawing improves strength via draw ratio control. CNTs raise Tc by acting as nucleating agents in PBAT. Drawing raises fiber strength from 0.378 to 1.63 gf/den.