Smart composites based on controllably grafted graphene oxide particles and elastomeric matrix with sensing capability

Abstract

This study utilize the simple fabrication method for graphene oxide (GO) sheet preparation, their controllable modification using surface initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (SI-ATRP) technique and thus suitable interaction with elastomeric matrix for final enhancement and controlling of the sensing capability upon light stimulus. GO particles and their grafted analogues were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Thermogravimetric analysis and Raman spectroscopy to properly see the controllable coating as well as reduction of GO during the single-step synthesis. The composites containing various amounts of GO, controllably modified GO and elastomeric matrix poly(vinylidene-co-hexafluoropropylene) elastomer were characterized by dynamic mechanical analysis and thermal conductivity. The phenomenon how the GO and modified GO particles influence the mobility of the polymer chains and thermal conductivity will be investigated. The impact on change of the material properties with respect to the light-responsive and sensing capabilities is discussed. © 2017 SPIE.