Synthesis of poly(vinyl alcohol)/reduced graphite oxide nanocomposites with improved thermal and electrical properties

Poly(vinylalcohol)/reduced graphite oxide nanocomposites have been synthesised by reducing graphite oxide in the presence of the polymer matrix and coagulating the system with 2-propanol. It has been observed that some interactions occur between the polymer and the reduced graphite oxide layers, mainly by hydrogen bonding. These interactions are responsible for a remarkable change in the thermal behaviour of the nanocomposites. In addition, high electrical conductivity has been achieved at concentrations beyond 7.5 wt% of reduced graphite oxide (similar to 0.1 S cm(-1)), with a percolation threshold between 0.5 and 1 wt%.