Analysis of dual role of nanographene on the microstructure-properties correlation of TPU/NG nanocomposite

Synthesis of nanographene (NG) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)/NG nanocomposites by a facile and cost-effective method was pursued in this work. For that purpose, NG was synthesized via a combination of microwave (MW) and shear mixing done by a simple kitchen blender. Next, TPU/NG nanocomposites were prepared by the kitchen blender in the solution state. Afterward, with variable amounts of the NG, TPU/NG nanocomposites were fabricated and their mechanical and rheological performances were comprehensively studied. It was established that the dispersion quality of NG had a fundamental impact on the rheological and mechanical properties of the fabricated nanocomposites which were even more fascinating than that of other nanofillers. It was discussed and suggested that this interesting presentation might have been originated from the dual role (reinforcement and a lubricant agent) of NG due to its size, dispersion state, and added amount.

Automated summary

Nanographene was synthesized and TPU/NG nanocomposites were prepared using a cost-effective method. The dispersion quality of NG significantly affected the rheological and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites, showing both reinforcement and lubricant effects.