Preface : Polymer Nanocomposites Containing Graphene Preparation, Properties, and Applications

Abstract

Nowadays, graphene-polymer composites are of great interest because of its practical application point of views. Hence, in this book, a discussion has been made on the different properties and applications of polymer-graphene nanocomposites. Initially, we have focused on synthesis techniques of graphenes, its types, and different processes of its modification/functionalization. Among different types of graphenes, neat graphene, graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, graphene nanoplatelet, chemically reduced graphene oxide, and thermally reduced graphene oxide are of great interest. A brief concept has been provided on polymer nanocomposites. The nanocomposites had been prepared by physical and covalent mixing methods. Physical mixing method includes melt blending, solution mixing, in-situ polymerization, latex phase blending, and electro-polymerization. Covalent mixing followed the grafting technology. Different properties of polymer-graphene composites are reported in detail, which include mechanical properties, electrical conductivity, dielectric properties, thermal properties, thermal conductivity, rheological properties, and electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness. Another topic of discussion is the dispersion state of graphene within the polymer matrices govern the physical properties of the composites. The structure of graphenes and polymers also govern the different properties of composites. Graphenes can be used as a reinforcing agent for thermoset resins as discussed herein. In this book, the published patents based on polymer-graphene composites are reported.