Performance evaluation of polysulfone/graphene nanocomposites

The present work focuses on the performance and properties of organomodified graphene nanoplatelet filled polysulfone nanocomposites prepared by solution casting. Morphology of the nanocomposites was investigated using atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Contact angle measurements showed significantly increased hydrophobicity of the nanocomposites relative to the neat polymer. Mechanical properties of the nanocomposites showed marked improvement at low graphene loadings. Thermal properties measured using thermogravimetric analysis showed that the incorporation of graphene increased the thermal stability and the char yield of the nanocomposites. After immersing the samples in various solvents, the changes in weight and mechanical property were evaluated and the aging performance was found to be improved. The prepared polysulfone nanocomposites with desired hydrophobic, thermal, mechanical and barrier properties are usable for high performance applications.