Self-healing and De-icing Functions of Graphene-carbon Nanotube Synergistic Reinforced Thermoplastic Polyurethane Composites Induced by Current

Abstract

The integration of structure and function is an important demand for new composite materials in high-technology areas like aerospace, automobile, rail transportation, etc. In this paper, the carbon nanotubes (CNTs) modified graphene (G) reinforced thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) composites were prepared to improve the interfacial properties of graphene-polyurethane composites and enhance the functionality (self-healing, deicing) of the composites. Firstly, the G-CNT/TPU composites with graphene weight percentages of 1%, 3%, 5%, and 7% were prepared by the solution blending method. Then, the current-induced self-healing behaviors of the composites with prefabricated cracks were studied. Finally, the virgin composite and the healed composite films were tested in tension and the self-healing properties of the CNT-G/TPU composite films. Furthermore, the thermogenic effects of G-CNT/TPU composite with different contents of graphene under various voltages were studied, and the variation of voltage and temperature was obtained. The findings show that the surfaces of the composite films with a graphene content of 1 wt% show little change in temperature and do not have the current repair properties. With the increase in graphene content, the composite film gradually increases in temperature after passing the point and its repair effect also increases, and the repair efficiency of the G-CNT/TPU composite film with 7 wt% graphene content reaches 95%. It also achieves energization and de-icing functions based on its conductive properties. These studies will provide positive guidance for the functionalization of lightweight composites.