Positive changes in the mechanical and optical properties of the floor epoxy reinforced with green graphene

Abstract

Silica‐rich Green Graphene® (GG) derived from agricultural residue is incorporated into a floor epoxy (FEP) matrix. The inclusion of GG particles within the FEP matrix has demonstrated a significant positive impact, resulting in improved optical and mechanical properties and increased durability of the floor coatings. The addition of GG into the original FEP reduces surface pores, with the glazier appearance of the composite coating attributed to a smooth surface enhancing light reflection. It is noteworthy that the FEP exhibits a high coefficient of friction (CoF), thereby constraining its potential in tribo‐logical applications. Nano‐indentation and tribo‐logical tests confirm that, incorporation of the 0.5 wt% GG in the FEP matrix results in a 130.15% improvement in hardness, a 10.45% decrease of nano‐scratch depth, a 34.55% decrease in wear rate, and a 33.33% decrease in CoF w.r.t pristine FEP sample. Tensile testing reveals a significant 37% enhancement in fracture strain, along with improvements of 12.3% in specific flexural strength and 43% in energy absorption. The utilization of GG derived from green processes, such as pyrolysis of residual agro‐biomass, presents an environmentally conscious alternative to conventional polluting as well as nonrenewable materials employed in epoxy‐based floor coatings.Highlights Green graphene/floor epoxy (GG/FEP) composites present a glazier appearance attributed to a smooth surface enhancing light reflection. GG particles enhance the hardness and tribo‐logical performance of the composite. GG/FEP composites show a synergistic enhancement in flexural strength. GG presents a sustainable and economically viable material for the epoxy‐based flooring industry.