RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY OF POLYMER-CARBON NANOMATERIAL COMPOSITES

Raman spectroscopy is potentially useful in the analysis of polymer composites filled with carbon materials. These carbon materials that display strong resonance-enhanced Raman scattering effects give rise to strong bands even if used at very low filler loading, thus making Raman spectroscopy one of the most important techniques for the analysis of various properties of the composites. Factors that influence the Raman signal are presented and discussed for correct acquisition and interpretation of the spectra of polymer composites. Special attention is given to the characterization of the polymer-filler interface, which has been shown to play a crucial role in the extent of property improvement of the polymeric matrix.