Abstract
This study presents the reinforcement effect of graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) on tensile and thermal properties of polystyrene/graphene nanoplatelets (PS/GNP) nanocomposites. The PLA/GNP nanocomposites were prepared by melt-blending method with the GNP contents varied at 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 wt %. The tensile properties of PS/GNP nanocomposites were analysed by using universal testing machine, the thermal properties were investigated by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and thermal conductivity analysis, while the morphology were characterized by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) measurement. Steady improvement of tensile strength and Young’s Modulus was observed as the composition of GNP increased. The study also showed that the thermal stability and thermal conductivity of PS/GNP nanocomposites increase with increasing content of GNP. This study indicates strong influence of GNP contents on reinforcement effect and thermal properties of PS/GNP nanocomposites.
Highlights
Polystyrene (PS) is versatile petroleum based polymers with wide application in insulation and packaging industries
Compared to pure PS, the tensile strength of PS/graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) increased by 1.6%, 44% and 50% with additional of 0.5wt% and 1wt% GNP respectively
This study shows that polystyrene/graphene nanoplatelets (PS/GNP) nanocomposites with 1.5wt% GNP contents, displayed the best improvement of thermal stability and thermal conductivity as compared to other formulations
Summary
Polystyrene (PS) is versatile petroleum based polymers with wide application in insulation and packaging industries. It is an amorphous thermoplastic polymer produced by polymerization of styrene monomer, with good mechanical rigidity, low thermal conductivity, and easy processing. GNP is essentially a two dimensional single layer carbon allotrope with extraordinary mechanical strength [3]. It possesses extremely high Young’s modulus, tensile strength, thermal conductivity and electrical conductivity. Successful development of PS/GNP nanocomposites may offer wider application of PS, replace its conventional use as food container which is the main contributors of solid waste. The aim of this study is to determine the suitable formulation to produce PS/GNP nanocomposites with the best mechanical and thermal properties
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
