In-Plane Functionalizing Graphene Nanolayers with Polystyrene by Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization: Grafting from Hydroxyl Groups

Graphene oxide (GO) was prepared from the oxidation of graphite and then it was functionalized with (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) from hydroxyl groups by a coupling reaction. Subsequently, alpha-bromoisobutyryl bromide (BiBB) was attached to the APTES groups to yield initiator anchored graphene nanolayers (GOHBr). Then, GOHBr was used in different amounts as the precursor for atom transfer radical polymerization of styrene to evaluate the effect of graphene loading along with the graft density on the properties of final product. Successful in-plain attachment of APTES, BiBB, and polystyrene to GO was evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Graphene interlayers expansion by oxidation and functionalization processes was evaluated using X-ray diffraction. The ordered and disordered crystal structures of carbon were evaluated by Raman spectroscopy. Morphology of graphene nanolayers was studied by scanning electron microscopy and also transmission electron microscopy. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:386-395, 2014. (c) 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers