Recent Advances in Graphene/Polymer Nanocomposites
TANG Longcheng1, WAN Yanjun1, GAO Xiaoyu2, ZHAO Li1
1. Key Laboratory of Organosilicon Chemistry and Material Technology of Ministry of Education, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 310012, China;2. Changzhou Institute of Light Industry Technology, Changzhou 213164, Jiangsu Province, China
Abstract:Graphene, the two-dimensional sp2-hybridized carbon, is currently the most intensively studied material. The unique structural elements endow graphene with excellent electrical, mechanical and thermal properties. Recently, graphene has been widely used to prepare polymer-based nanocomposites. However, the application of graphene in polymer is challenged by issues of production, storage and processing. This article reviews the state-of-the-art progress in the fabrication, properties and potential applications of graphene/polymer nanocomposites. Three main routes (solution blending, melt mixing and in situ polymerization) used to produce the graphene/polymer composite materials are introduced, and the processing on the micro-structures of graphene in various polymer matrices is also introduced. The strategies to tailor the strength, stiffness and toughness, electrical and thermal properties of the graphene/polynmer composites are summarized. Generally speaking, chemical modifications including covalent and non-covalent interactions are helpful to improve the dispersion/exfoliation and interface in the composites. The mechanical properties including modulus, strength and toughness of the graphene/polymer are related with these parameters. Moreover, the influence of graphene on the thermal and electrical properties of the polymer composites is further reviewed. In addition, the challenges and applications of the graphene/polymer composites associated with the production, processing and performance enhancement are discussed. Future perspectives for production of graphene/polymer composites in a large quantity at low cost are also put forward.