PVP Comb Copolymer for Fast, Stable Carbon Nanotube Dispersion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Carbon nanotubes are difficult to disperse effectively due to their one-dimensional structure and π-π interactions, leading to aggregation and long dispersion periods with existing dispersants like PVP, which compromises dispersion efficiency and stability.

Innovation Solution

A PVP comb-like copolymer is synthesized through controlled copolymerization with anhydride monomers, incorporating terminal hydroxyl groups to enhance dispersion and stability, applicable in both aqueous and organic phases.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If conventional dispersants like PVP are used to disperse carbon nanotubes, then dispersion stability is improved, but dispersion period becomes long

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedispersion stabilityVSAvoiddispersion period
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies the molecular structure of PVP by introducing comb-like side chains with specific parameters (m, n, p ratios and R group types) to change the dispersant's interaction characteristics with carbon nanotubes, achieving both fast and stable dispersion

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The invention creates a composite molecular structure combining PVP backbone with anhydride-derived side chains containing hydroxyl groups, forming a comb-like copolymer that integrates multiple functional groups for enhanced dispersion performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If carbon nanotubes are used as electrode materials, then battery performance is improved, but dispersion difficulty increases due to aggregation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery performanceVSAvoiddispersion difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The comb-like copolymer acts as an intermediary substance between carbon nanotubes and the slurry medium, using its dual functional groups (pyrrolidone and hydroxyl) to bridge the inert carbon nanotubes with the dispersing medium, preventing aggregation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces specific local functional groups (hydroxyl groups on comb-like side chains) at strategic positions on the polymer structure to enhance local interaction with carbon nanotube surfaces, improving overall dispersion

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The PVP comb-like copolymer achieves high dispersion efficiency and stability of carbon nanotubes with shorter dispersion periods, maintaining uniform dispersion without precipitates, outperforming conventional dispersants like SDBS and PVK30.

Implementation Method 1

PVP can be applied to both the aqueous phase system and organic phase system, and can achieve the effective and stable dispersion of carbon nanotubes

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdsorption: Adsorption

Implementation Method 2

ρ-electrons of carbon atoms form a large range of delocalized π-bonds, and carbon nanotubes tend to be tightly aggregated together by the π-π interaction

Methodology Applied
Scientific Effectπ-π interaction:

Data Source

PatentUS20250263513A1PVP comb copolymer and preparation method therefor and use thereof
Publication Date: 2025.08.21 SHANGHAI YUKING WATER SOLUBLE MATERIAL TECH
  • US20250263513A1 patent drawing
  • US20250263513A1 patent drawing
  • US20250263513A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed are a PVP comb-like copolymer and a preparation method therefor and a use thereof. The preparation method comprises: (1) preparation of PVP-OH copolymer, and (2) preparation of PVP comb-like copolymer. The PVP comb-like copolymer prepared from the preparation method has a homogeneous structure. A carbon nanotube slurry prepared by using the PVP comb copolymer as a dispersant has the characteristics of high dispersion efficiency, good stability, and short dispersion period.