Advances in Preparation Methods and Conductivity Properties of Graphene-based Polymer Composites

Abstract

Graphene-based polymer composites with improved physical properties are of great interest due to their lightweight, conductivity, and durability. They have the potential to partially replace metals and ceramics in several applications which can reduce energy and cost. The obtained properties of graphene-based polymer composites are often linked to the way graphene is dispersed in the polymer matrix. Preparation techniques like solution mixing, melt blending, and in-situ polymerization have been used to obtain graphene-based polymer composites. Dispersing and aligning graphene fillers within the composite is a key factor in enhancing the thermal and electrical conductivity values of the composites due to graphene’s anisotropic properties. The effect of the preparation methods of these composites on their physical-chemical properties is discussed in this review where we presented the advances that were achieved so far in the preparation techniques used showing the highest values ever achieved for electrical and thermal conductivity for these graphene-based polymer composites. Also, we presented the possible applications where graphene-based composites can be utilized.

In Situ Polymer-Solution-Processed Graphene–PDMS Nanocomposites for Application in Intracranial Pressure Sensors

“…Based on the characteristics of graphene and PDMS, solution mixing is the most suitable method for fabricating graphene-reinforced PDMS (Gr-PDMS). However, the major drawbacks associated with solution mixing include aggregation of graphene nanosheets [ 27 ] and the low permissible graphene concentration (~0.01 mg/mL) [ 28 ], constraining the properties of the composite matrix. A seminal work in this area utilizes a concentric-cylinder shearing device with in situ rheology to assess the extent of exfoliation to fabricate graphene-reinforced polymers, which achieves the unadulterated adhesion of the graphene nanoflakes in the polymer matrix without massive aggregation [ 29 ], providing insightful instructions for the preparation of Gr-PDMS.…”

Graphene Nanocomposites for Electromagnetic Interference Shielding—Trends and Advancements

“…In addition, carbon nanofillers have fine dispersions in the matrices due to interface formation, thereby enabling high electrical conductivity and radiation shielding properties [149]. The formation of a compatible interface between the polymer and graphene was found to be useful for enhancing radiation protection characteristics [150]. Covalent interactions between the matrix and nanofiller play an especially important role in the formation of compatible nanocomposites [151].…”

Enhancing Thermal Conductivity in Polymer Composites through Molding-Assisted Orientation of Boron Nitride

“…Polymer-based thermally conductive materials, known for their excellent electrically insulating attributes, light weight, and ease of processing, have begun to supplant traditional metal-based counterparts, demonstrating significant potential in thermal management applications [ 3 , 4 ]. However, polymers are inherently thermally insulating, and enhancing their thermal conductivity involves either augmenting the intrinsic thermal conductivity of the polymers or incorporating high-thermal-conductivity fillers [ 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 ].…”