  Classical molecular dynamics (MD) simulations employing Brenner potential for
intra-nanotube interactions and Van der Waals forces for polymer-nanotube
interfaces are used to invetigate the thermal expansion and diffusion
characteristics of carbon nanotube-polyethylene composites. Additions of carbon
nanotubes to polymer matrix are found to increase the glass transition
temperature Tg, and thermal expansion and diffusion coefficients in the
composite above Tg. These findings could have implications in CNT composite
processing, coating and painting applications.
