Degradation of polymer nanocomposites filled with graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide nanoparticles: A review of current status

Abstract

The properties of polymers can be affected by external factors such as temperature, light, humidity, and enzymes that may negatively impact their performance. Incorporating graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanoparticles in polymers has been shown to result in improved properties of the final nanocomposites, even at low nanoparticle contents. However, the presence of these nanoparticles may accelerate or postpone the degradation of the host polymers. In the present review paper, we provide an overview of the current status of research on the stabilization and degradation of GO and rGO-filled polymer nanocomposites. We discuss the structure and synthesis of GO and rGO nanoparticles, followed by a review of their properties and applications. We further report on the surface modification of graphene-based nanomaterials as a means to improve their dispersion in polymers, a condition that is necessary for maximizing the enhancement of the final properties of the nanocomposites. Finally, we provide an overview of the mechanisms associated with the thermal, photolytic, hydrolytic, and enzymatic degradation of the nanocomposites.