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Effect of processing parameters on the structure and multi-functional performance of epoxy/GNP-nanocomposites

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Abstract

Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) are recently developed nanoparticles that are formed by stacks of short disk-like layers of graphite. They cost considerably less than their carbon nanotubes (CNTs) counterparts, and can be potentially used to generate multi-functional material systems. However, there are significant number of structural differences between GNPs and CNTs. It is therefore timely to review and optimize the current processing techniques used for generating GNP-nanocomposites. In this research, a scalable shear mixing approach (i.e., a three-roll mill) is utilized for achieving uniform dispersion of different fractions of GNPs in an epoxy resin. Then, the stiffness, electrical and thermal conductivity, and linear coefficient of thermal expansion of the resulting nanocomposites were evaluated. The as-processed nanocomposites exhibited significant improvement in their thermal properties, but a moderate increase in stiffness. The electrical percolation threshold of the nanocomposite occurred at higher concentration of GNP than that predicted by the available micromechanical models. This is attributed to the change in size of GNPs, which occurs as a result of manufacturing process, as observed by scanning electron microscopy.

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Acknowledgements

This research was funded by the National Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) through the Collaborative Research and Training Experience (CREATE) program. The authors are grateful to the granting agency. The use of Dalhousie Institute for Research in Material (IRM) equipment, through Professor M.A. White (Chemistry Department, Dalhousie University) and Professor S. Corbin (Civil & Resource Engineering Department, Dalhousie University) is also gratefully acknowledged.

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  1. Advanced Composites & Mechanics Research Lab, Department of Civil and Resource Engineering, Dalhousie University, 1360 Barrington Street, PO Box 15000, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada

    B. Ahmadi-Moghadam & F. Taheri

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  1. B. Ahmadi-Moghadam
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  2. F. Taheri
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Correspondence to F. Taheri.

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Ahmadi-Moghadam, B., Taheri, F. Effect of processing parameters on the structure and multi-functional performance of epoxy/GNP-nanocomposites. J Mater Sci 49, 6180–6190 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10853-014-8332-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10853-014-8332-y

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