Significantly enhanced tribology and thermal management by dual‐network graphene/epoxy composites

Abstract

With the development of energy-saving industries, the tribology and thermal management of composites were increasingly urgent. Here, we explored the dual-network graphene/epoxy composites with enhanced tribological and thermal management. The 3D graphene was prepared using calcium ions as the crosslinker and melamine foam as template. Subsequently, the reinforced concrete-like composites were obtained by dipping in silica-filled epoxy. The research results show that the thermal conductivity of the composites was enhanced by 1015.52% compared to the silica-filled epoxy. Simultaneously, the friction coefficient of the composites was reduced to 0.29 with the wear rate be reduced to 0.19 × 10−5 mm3/N∙m under the condition of 5 N and 2 cm/s. This dual-network model provides a new strategy for the development of solid lubricating materials with excellent thermal management.