1 - Introduction to graphene-based materials and their composites

Abstract

In the present decade, by the development of nanoscience, other fields were affected considerably. Carbon-based nanomaterials, i.e., fullerenes, carbon black, single-walled, and multiwalled CNTs, GO, rGO, and graphene, were introduced as effective nanomaterials for different industrial applications. However, due to the unique electrical and thermal properties, graphene was known more than the others. Graphene and its derivates are some of the most common nanomaterials, which are extensively utilized in various applications, i.e., polymers due to the insufficient properties of pristine polymers. In other words, the presence of graphene-based nanofillers improves their durable properties. Evaluations confirmed that the existence of a low concentration of graphene (and its derivate) in the polymeric matrixes causes considerable effects on the natural properties of the graphene-containing polymeric matrixes. Recently, these nanoparticles have been applied in sensors, batteries, solar cells, etc. This chapter has focused on introducing graphene and the synthesis methods of its derivates, modification routes, and their impacts on the physical/chemical/thermal/anticorrosion properties of the polymeric matrixes.