Graphene chemistry and nanoscale mechanics: scientific and technological perspectives

Vincenzo PALERMO, ISOF CNR Bologna

Graphene shows considerable promise in composite applications thanks to its unique combination of high tensile strength, Young’s modulus and structural flexibility due to its maximal chemical bond strength and minimal atomic thickness. The excellent electrical conductivity of graphene and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) can also have useful applications in bulk materials or thin films. However, the ultimate performance of graphene composites will depend, in addition on the properties of the matrix and interface, also on the morphology of the graphene used, including size and shape of the sheets, density and number of chemical defects present. For example, whilst oxidized sp3 carbon atoms and vacancies in a graphene sheet can degrade its mechanical strength, they also increase its interaction with other materials such as the polymer matrix of a composite, maximizing strain transfer and leading to more efficient mechanical reinforcement. We present here an overview of some recently published work on graphene mechanical and electrical properties and discuss a list of challenges that need to be overcome (notwithstanding the strong hype existing on this material) for the development of graphene-based materials into a successful technology.

 
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