Fabrication of cellular structures in thermoplastic polyurethane matrix using carbonaceous nanofillers

Abstract

In the present study, we have synthesized, graphene oxide (GO) by using modified Hummer’s method and reduced graphene oxide(rGO) by using hydrazine hydrate as reducing agent. Since GO and rGO have high surface area and modification of surface is easier, they produce drastic changes in the matrix properties at a very low loading volume. Oxygen functionalities further allow increased interaction with polar polymer composites. Modified hummers method is the most commonly and widely used method of chemical reduction to synthesis graphene oxide as it is rapid and safe. Unlike other method, it is less hazardous and requires less reaction time. Sulfuric acid was used to disperse graphite and NaNO3 and KMNO4 as oxidizing agent. The use of KMNO4 instead of KClO3 reduced the chances of ClO2 explosion and also accelerated the reaction. Characterization of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide was done using XRD, SEM, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy and TGA. The synthesized GO and rGO were used as nanofillers for the synthesis of polyurethane nanocomposite. Thermoplastic polyurethane is biodegradable and thus polyurethane nanocomposites have wide application. PU nanocomposites were prepared using thermo-chemical solvent mixing method and their microstructures were investigated using various characterization techniques.