Ghislandi M., Tkalya E., Alekseev A., Koning C.E., de With G.
TU/e, NL
Keywords: dispersion, graphene, latex technology, polymer nanocomposite
In this work, starting from graphite, we produced graphene dispersed in water following the two main chemical conversion approaches and a physical conversion via ultrasonic exfoliation. Subsequently, graphene /polystyrene (PS) composites were prepared using the well-known latex technology. The latex concept enables the incorporation and proper dispersion of nanofillers into any kind of highly viscous polymer such as PS, e.g. synthesized by emulsion polymerization or similar processes4. A comparison of the three chosen techiques with respect to filler morphology and conductive properties of the respective nanocomposites is presented. Water/surfactant solutions were prepared with the nanofillers prepared via the three methods described above and latex technology was applied for the preparation of conductive graphene/polystyrene composites, with well-dispersed graphene platelets. Each dispersion was mixed with PS latex, frozen in liquid nitrogen for several minutes, and subsequently freeze dried. The resulting composite powders were heated up and then compression molded into films. The samples were characterized (Raman, UV-Vis, AFM, SEM) with respect to filler properties and morphology, and their influences on electrical conductive properties of the composites were compared.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2012: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites (Volume 1)
Published: June 18, 2012
Pages: 322 - 325
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Carbon Nano Structures & Devices
ISBN: 978-1-4665-6274-5