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Thermoplastic SEBS Elastomer Nanocomposites Reinforced with Functionalized Graphene Dispersions
Author(s) -
Hofmann Daniel,
Thomann Ralf,
Mülhaupt Rolf
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
macromolecular materials and engineering
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.913
H-Index - 96
eISSN - 1439-2054
pISSN - 1438-7492
DOI - 10.1002/mame.201700324
Subject(s) - materials science , composite material , graphene , graphite , thermoplastic elastomer , nanocomposite , polystyrene , elastomer , thermoplastic polyurethane , thermoplastic , scanning electron microscope , graphite oxide , percolation threshold , polymer , nanotechnology , copolymer , electrical resistivity and conductivity , engineering , electrical engineering
Blending a maleinated polystyrene‐ b ‐poly(ethylene‐ r ‐butylene)‐ b ‐polystyrene (SEBS) thermoplastic elastomer with functionalized graphene (FG) dispersions in tetrahydrofuran (THF) prior to the melt processing results in SEBS/FG nanocomposites with improved property profiles. According to microscopic imaging (atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, focus ion beam–scanning electron microscopy), FG dispersions derived from multilayer graphene (MLG 350) and thermally reduced graphite oxide enable uniform dispersion of single‐ and few‐layer FG within both the THF and the SEBS matrix. In contrast, high‐pressure homogenization of nonfunctionalized graphite yields larger graphene stacks together with blend of graphene stacks with micrometer‐sized graphite (GG). As opposed to SEBS/GG composites, SEBS/FG composites exhibit superior mechanical properties as well as higher Shore A hardness, electrical conductivity at a lower percolation threshold, and enhanced gas barrier resistance. Hence, SEBS/FG composites hold promise as thermoplastic elastomers, serving the needs of automotive and sealant industries.