Graphene - Polymer Matrix Nanocomposites: Study of Particle-Matrix Interaction for Optimizing Composite Performance
Abstract
There is an unmet US military need for lightweight components to reduce warfighter loads, vehicle mass, and fuel consumption while p"roviding adequate ballistic and blast protection. This requires a new class of materials based on graphene-reinforced polymer matri"x composites (G-PMCs). Recently, Rutgers Advanced Polymer Center (AMIPP) demonstrated efficient shear exfoliation of well-crystall""ized, mined graphite particles into graphene nano-flakes (GNF) within a molten thermoplastic polymer, resulting in a lightweight, hi"gh performance G-PMC with enhanced modulus and impact resistance. The aim of the proposed work is to perform a study to determine t"he particle-matrix interaction between GNFs and polymer matrices, as a result of in situ shear exfoliation of graphite directly with""in molten polymer. Once the interaction is determined for various types of polymers, it may be exploited to tailor lightweight, hig""h performance G-PMCs for modern military needs. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (X""PS), Raman, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) will be used to determine the existence of"" covalent bonding b between GNFs and polymer matrix. A more recent, novel method will also be used to study GNF-matrix interaction," called high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) imaging and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). Find"ings from these methods complement one another and allow for comparison of results, which is especially beneficial since these compo"site materials are new. Additional research is necessary to optimize the processing-microstructure-property relationships for optim"al performance of these advanced materials. Thus, we request $100,000 to perform a one-year study on the interaction between GNFs a""nd polymer matrices, as a result of in situ shear exfoliation of graphite in molten thermoplastic polymers.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2017
- Source ID
- N000141712712
Entities
People
- Jennifer Lynch-Branzoi
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Rutgers University
- United States Navy