Controlled Localization of <scp> BaTiO ₃ </scp> ‐Graft‐ <scp>MWCNT</scp> Nanoparticles to Improve Compatibility and Form Double‐Percolated <scp>PVDF</scp> / <scp>PLLA</scp> / <scp>PDLA</scp> Electroactive Blend Nanocomposites Using Joncryl

ABSTRACT Electroactive polymer nanocomposites (EPNs) have attracted researchers' attention due to their potential applications in smart materials. Their common components are polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), and barium titanate (BaTiO 3 ). The formation of the electrical 3D network of nanoparticles and the percolated structure significantly enhances their performance. Electroactive BaTiO 3 ‐graft‐MWCNT (BT‐g‐CNT) nanoparticles were synthesized. Copolymers, based on the branched BT‐g‐CNT nanoparticles, were formed from the components of the immiscible blend of PVDF, poly l ‐lactic acid (PLLA), and poly d ‐lactic acid (PDLA) facilitated by Joncryl chain extender during reactive melt‐mixing. This process led to the migration of branched BT‐g‐CNT nanoparticles from the PVDF phase mainly to the interface. All of these inhibited coalescence and coarsening and formed and stabilized the double percolated morphology. Therefore, the interfacial adhesion, compatibility, and mechanical properties of the PVDF/PLLA/PDLA blend nanocomposite, containing 1 wt% of branched BT‐g‐CNT nanoparticles, were improved by means of small amplitude oscillatory shear (SAOS) experiments, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), and electron microscopic and tensile tests. The crystallization mechanism and structure of crystals were studied using non‐isothermal DSC, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The highest values of EMI shielding, dielectric permittivity, and electrical conductivity were achieved in this blend nanocomposite.