Graphene Platelets and Their Polymer Composites: Fabrication, Structure, Properties, and Applications. (24th March 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shi, Ge; Araby, Sherif; Gibson, Christopher T.; Meng, Qingshi; Zhu, Shenmin; Ma, Jun
• Is Part Of: Advanced functional materials. Volume 28:Number 19(2018)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2018-03-24
• Subjects: dispersion -- exfoliation -- graphene -- intercalation -- polymer composites; Materials -- Periodicals; Chemical vapor deposition -- Periodicals; 620.11
• DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201706705
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1616-301X

Abstract

Abstract: Graphene oxide is extensively compounded with polymers toward a wide variety of applications. Less studied are few‐layer or multi‐layer highly crystalline graphene, both of which are herein named as graphene platelets. This article aims to provide the most recent advancements of graphene platelets and their polymer composites. A first focus lies on cost‐effective fabrication strategies of graphene platelets – intercalation and exfoliation – which work in a relative mass scale, e.g., 5.3 g h −1 . As no heavy oxidization is involved, the platelets have high crystalline integrity, e.g., C:O ratio over 8.0, with thicknesses 2–4 nm and lateral dimension up to a few micrometers. Through carefully selecting the solvent for dispersion and the molecules for surface modification, graphene platelets can be liquid‐processable, enabling them to be printed, coated, or compounded with various polymers. A purpose‐designed experiment is undertaken to unravel the effect of reasonable ultrasonication time on the platelet thickness. Typical polymer/graphene platelet composites are critically examined for their preparation, structure, and applications such as thermal management and flexible/stretchable electronic devices. Perspectives on the limitations, current challenges, and future prospects for graphene platelets and their polymer composites are provided. Abstract : Graphene platelets referring to few‐layer or multi‐layer highly crystalline graphene have attracted increasing attention for the development of polymer composites. This article reviews the recent platelet fabrication strategies – intercalation and exfoliation from graphite. The platelets processable in liquid can be printed, coated, or compounded with various polymers to fabricate various functional composites and devices.