Formation Of Graphene Oxide-Based Ordered Structures In Epoxy: Effect Of Grafted Polymer Chains

Graphene oxide (GO) has high potential for grafting of polymer chains. This mostly enhances exfoliation or controls structure-directing effects in thermoplastic blends, whereas various complex arrays may be formed in the case of epoxy thermosets. This study reveals that the structure of these arrays is markedly influenced by parameters of grafted polymer chains and geometry of grafting. The best-balanced properties were found for nacre-mimicking lamellar arrays with an important role of internal structure and elasticity of grafted chains. Beneficial is s relatively thick "elastic interlayer" of grafted butadiene-acrylonitrile copolymer with toughening effect comparable to much higher content of free polymer addition.[GRAPHICS].