Preparation of functionalized graphene/linear low density polyethylene composites by a solution mixing method

The surface modification of graphene as well as the characterization of modified graphene-based polymer composite prepared by solution mixing techniques was examined. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was employed to examine the surface modification and formation of graphene. The tensile strength of the composite increased with 3 wt.% of DA-G loading and was 46% higher than that of neat LLDPE. The onset thermal degradation temperature of the composite (3 wt.% of DA-G) was increased by similar to 40 degrees C compared to neat LLDPE. A sharp increase in electrical conductivity of the composite was observed at 3 wt.% of DA-G content. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.