Preparation and characterization of graphene oxide and it application as a reinforcement in polypropylene composites

Abstract

In this article, graphene oxide (GO) is modified using Phosphorous acid via the strong –P = O in the study reported in the paper. And the chemical structure was characterized by Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X‐ray diffraction. And polypropylene (PP) composites are prepared by melt compounding method, and functionalized graphene oxide (FGO) is in situ thermally reduced during the processing. The thermal stability, mechanical and flame properties, and morphology for the char layer of composite materials were separately investigated using TG (Thermogravimetric analysis), tensile and charpy impact tests and SEM (scanning electron microscope). The results of SEM and TEM indicate that FGO nanosheets are homogeneously dispersed in polymer matrix with intercalation and exfoliation microstructure. The FGO/PP nanocomposite exhibits higher thermal stability and flame retardant property than those of the GO counterpart and pure PP. During the thermal decomposition, The –P = O introduced to improve the flame effect and the yield of the carbon residue was increase. The heat release rate and the escape of volatile degradation products are reduced in the FGO‐based nanocomposites. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:723–729, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers