Selective laser sintering of functionalized carbon nanotubes and inorganic fullerene-like tungsten disulfide reinforced polyamide 12 nanocomposites with excellent fire safety and mechanical properties

More effective and safe fire prevention solutions for polymer derivatives are necessary to address rising environmental and health concerns. In this study, the novel and simple chemically modified multi-walled carbon nanotubes (H-CNT) and PEGylated inorganic fullerene tungsten sulphide (P-IF-WS2) reinforced PA12 nanocomposites are synergistically prepared via selective laser sintering (SLS). The PA12/H-CNT/IF-WS2 nanocomposites show a wider sintering window than blank PA12. The formed hydrogen bond network of inter-chain contacts and compatibility in PA12/H-CNT/P-IF-WS2 matrix is proved. Furthermore, a dense carbon layer is developed by further dehydrating the oxygen-rich functional groups on the surface of H-CNT and P-IF-WS2 during carbonization at high temperatures. The PA12/H-CNT/P-IF-WS2 nanocomposites fabricated by incorporating hydrogen and carbon bonds in the PA12-based nanocomposites demonstrate good fire safety, thermal, and mechanical properties. The significant reduction in total heat release (20.14%), peak heat release (38.9%), and total smoke emission (22.6%) showed the improved fire safety of PA12. The H-CNT and P-IF-WS2 nanofillers also enhanced the mechanical (tensile and dynamic mechanical) capabilities. This technique of introducing nano-additives to SLS samples changes offers a practical, long-lasting, and effective way to improve the flame retardancy of laser-sintered polymer nanocomposites.