Material characterization of graphene and boron nitride for composites reinforcement

Abstract

In this research work the characterization studies and property evaluation of graphene and boron nitride are performed through various devices/techniques like Particle Size Analyzer, Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). This experimental work is focused on validating the suitability of graphene and boron nitride for use as reinforcement materials for fabricating ceramic matrix composites. The parameters influencing the properties of graphene and boron nitride such as phase change, particle size, number of layers, defects, and the presence of oxygen groups are analyzed and presented. This work also presents a thorough TGA to ascertain the effect of various factors on graphene and boron nitride such as the degradation of carbon and nitride region and its temperature of maximum mass change rate (Tmax). The TGA also provides an insight into the graphene's behaviour in a zero-air environment, showing that breakdown begins at temperatures below 250 °C and peaks at 850 °C. A lower quantity of weight loss occurs when graphene decomposes in a nitrogen atmosphere at 250 °C. graphene decomposes at a rate of 69.94 wt% in a zero-air environment, but just 8.78 wt% in a nitrogen atmosphere. In a nitrogen atmosphere, the breakdown weight percentage of boron nitride is 3.54%, while in a zero-air environment, it is 11.99%.