Large-scale production of CNT reinforced PVC-based artificial leather

Abstract

Nanoparticle-reinforced polymers have been extensively studied at the laboratory scale for decades; however, their large-scale implementation in everyday applications remains limited. In this study, carbon nanotube (CNT)enhanced PVC-based artificial leather was successfully fabricated and systematically characterized. The structural, optical, and mechanical properties of both neat and CNT-reinforced artificial leather were investigated through FTIR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, SEM, XRD, tensile, flexibility, abrasion, wear, and water contact angle measurements. Accelerated aging tests under UV and thermal exposure were also conducted. Although the addition of 0.5 wt% CNTs did not alter the surface structure-likely due to nanoparticle encapsulation within the polymer matrix-it significantly influenced other properties. The CNTs were generally well-dispersed with minimal agglomeration. Notably, the inclusion of CNTs enhanced tensile strength, reduced abrasion loss, and enabled control over the flexibility of the artificial leather. These findings demonstrate that even a small addition of CNTs can substantially improve the mechanical performance and durability of PVC-based artificial leather, highlighting its potential for broader practical applications.