Reinforcement effect of nanocomposites with single/hybrid graphene nanoplatelets and magnesium hydroxide

Abstract

Polypropylene matrix composites based on single filler of graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) and hybrid fillers of GNP/magnesium hydroxide (MH) were fabricated via melt blending process using internal mixer followed by compression moulding. Different concentration ranges of GNP (0.5–2 mass%) and MH (5–15 mass%) in the composites were used. Upon inclusion of MH particle, the thermal stability of the composites was further improved after an initial enhancement by GNP filler. The highly flame-resistant composites were obtained that a notable decrease in burning rate was achieved with increasing GNP concentrations relative to neat PP, and the addition of MH led to further deficiency of the reduction in burning rate. The improvement in thermal stability and flame retardancy properties was strongly correlated with the formation of charred yield by adding filler. Tensile measurements indicated that the most noteworthy improvement in tensile strength and Young’s modulus was observed for 1 mass% GNP and 5 mass% MH. It can be concluded that the GNP and MH served as effective hybrid reinforcing fillers to attain the optimal thermo-mechanical characteristics.