Functional graphene nanoflakes/cyanate/epoxy nanocomposites: mechanical, dielectric and thermal properties

Abstract

Functional graphene nanoflakes/cyanate/epoxy (FGNs/CE/EP) nanocomposites were prepared with solution insertion method. The functional graphene nanoflakes (FGNs) were added to CE/EP copolymer to improve the integrated properties of the FGNs/CE/EP nanocomposites. The non-isothermal behavior of the FGNs/CE/EP nanocomposites was investigated using differential scanning calorimetry at different heating rates. The result clearly indicated that the functional graphene nanoflakes (FGNs) acted as a catalyst over the whole curing process and shortened the curing time. The mechanical, dielectric and thermal properties were characterized via mechanical, dielectric and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) techniques, respectively. The results showed that the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites, enhanced with 2.0 wt% FGNs, not only because the flexural strength reached the optimum value, but also because the impact strength acquired the best value. When compared with the dielectric properties of the CE/EP copolymer, the dielectric constant and dielectric loss factor of the FGNs/CE/EP nanocomposites with 2.0 wt% of FGNs slightly increased. The TGA of the nanocomposites was thoroughly recorded, which indicated that the thermal properties of the FGNs/CE/EP nanocomposites increased as well. Therefore, the FGNs acted as a catalyst as well as a reinforcing agent in the FGNs/CE/EP nanocomposites.