Graphene-Rubber Nanocomposites: Fundamentals to Applications

Graphene-rubber nanocomposites are a promising material for various applications, such as sensors, flexible electronics, thermal, and EMI shielding materials. They have a unique structure-property relationship, and their characterization is essential for understanding their performance. This book provides a comprehensive understanding of the structure of graphene, including its chemical modification for usage in elastomer composites.

Format: Hardback
Length: 538 pages
Publication date: 24 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Graphene-rubber nanocomposites have gained significant attention in recent years due to their remarkable properties and diverse applications. These materials, which combine the unique mechanical properties of rubber with the electronic and thermal properties of graphene, have the potential to revolutionize various industries. In this comprehensive review, we will explore the latest advancements in graphene-rubber nanocomposites, including their synthesis, structure, properties, and potential applications.

Synthesis of Graphene-Rubber Nanocomposites:

Graphene-rubber nanocomposites are typically synthesized through two main methods: chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and physical blending. CVD involves the growth of graphene on a substrate, followed by the mixing of graphene with rubber particles. Physical blending involves directly mixing graphene and rubber in a mixing chamber. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of method depends on the specific requirements of the application.

Structure of Graphene-Rubber Nanocomposites:

The structure of graphene-rubber nanocomposites is highly dependent on the synthesis method and the ratio of graphene to rubber. Graphene, a two-dimensional carbon material, is characterized by its high electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and mechanical strength. Rubber, on the other hand, is a three-dimensional polymer material with excellent flexibility, resilience, and abrasion resistance.

The structure of graphene-rubber nanocomposites can be categorized into three main phases: graphene phase, rubber phase, and interphase. The graphene phase consists of graphene sheets dispersed in the rubber matrix. The rubber phase consists of rubber chains and rubber particles embedded in the graphene matrix. The interphase region is the interface between the graphene and rubber phases, where chemical interactions and bonding occur.

Properties of Graphene-Rubber Nanocomposites:

Graphene-rubber nanocomposites exhibit a wide range of properties that make them suitable for various applications. Some of the key properties include:

High Electrical Conductivity: Graphene-rubber nanocomposites have high electrical conductivity, which makes them suitable for use in electronic devices such as sensors, touchscreens, and wearable devices.

Excellent Thermal Conductivity: Graphene-rubber nanocomposites have excellent thermal conductivity, which makes them suitable for use in thermal management applications such as heat sinks and thermal insulation materials.

High Mechanical Strength: Graphene-rubber nanocomposites have high mechanical strength, which makes them suitable for use in automotive and industrial applications where high durability and wear resistance are required.

Good Flexibility: Rubber is known for its excellent flexibility, which allows graphene-rubber nanocomposites to be used in flexible electronics, such as flexible displays and wearable devices.

Excellent Abrasion Resistance: Graphene-rubber nanocomposites have excellent abrasion resistance, which makes them suitable for use in industrial applications where materials are subjected to high wear and tear.

Potential Applications of Graphene-Rubber Nanocomposites:

Graphene-rubber nanocomposites have a wide range of potential applications in various industries. Some of the key applications include:

Sensors: Graphene-rubber nanocomposites can be used as sensors for various applications, such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, and strain sensors.

Flexible Electronics: Graphene-rubber nanocomposites can be used as flexible electronic materials, such as flexible displays, wearable devices, and electrical interconnects.

Thermal Management: Graphene-rubber nanocomposites can be used as thermal management materials, such as heat sinks and thermal insulation materials, in electronic devices and industrial applications.

EMI Shielding: Graphene-rubber nanocomposites can be used as EMI shielding materials in electronic devices to protect against electromagnetic interference.

Characterization of Graphene-Based Elastomeric Compositions:

Graphene-based elastomeric compositions are a subclass of graphene-rubber nanocomposites that are specifically designed for use in elastomeric materials. These compositions are characterized by their high elasticity, flexibility, and resilience.

The structure of graphene-based elastomeric compositions is similar to that of traditional elastomers, but with the addition of graphene particles. The graphene particles act as fillers, which enhance the mechanical properties of the elastomeric material. The addition of graphene also improves the thermal and electrical properties of the elastomeric material, making it suitable for use in a wide range of applications.

Comprehensive Understanding of the Structure of Graphene:

Graphene, a two-dimensional carbon material, is characterized by its unique structure and properties. The structure of graphene consists of a honeycomb lattice of carbon atoms, which are bonded together by strong covalent bonds. The thickness of graphene is typically around 1-2 nm, which makes it a highly conducting material.

Graphene can be modified to enhance its properties for use in elastomer composites. One common method of modification is chemical modification, which involves the addition of functional groups to the graphene surface. Functional groups can improve the solubility of graphene in rubber, which allows for better dispersion of graphene in the rubber matrix.

Conclusion:

Graphene-rubber nanocomposites have gained significant attention in recent years due to their remarkable properties and diverse applications. These materials have the potential to revolutionize various industries, including sensors, flexible electronics, thermal management, and EMI shielding. The synthesis of graphene-rubber nanocomposites is typically achieved through chemical vapor deposition or physical blending. The structure of graphene-rubber nanocomposites is highly dependent on the synthesis method and the ratio of graphene to rubber. Graphene-rubber nanocomposites exhibit a wide range of properties, including high electrical conductivity, excellent thermal conductivity, high mechanical strength, good flexibility, and excellent abrasion resistance.

In conclusion, graphene-rubber nanocomposites are a promising material with the potential to transform various industries. Their unique structure and properties make them suitable for use in a wide range of applications, from sensors to flexible electronics. With ongoing research and development, graphene-rubber nanocomposites will continue to evolve and find new applications in the future.

Weight: 1190g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032059778