Document Type
Thesis
Degree
Master of Science (MS)
Major/Program
Materials Science and Engineering
First Advisor's Name
Dr. Arvind Agarwal
First Advisor's Committee Title
Co-Committee Chair
Second Advisor's Name
Dr. Benjamin Boesl
Second Advisor's Committee Title
Co-Committee Chair
Third Advisor's Name
Dr. Norman Munroe
Third Advisor's Committee Title
Committee Member
Keywords
Three-Dimensional Graphene Foam (3D GrF), Epoxy, Polymer Matrix Composite (PMC), Mechanical Properties, Flexural Strength, Damping Behavior, Electrical Conductivity, Strain Sensor, Gauge Factor
Date of Defense
3-27-2017
Abstract
Three-dimensional graphene foam (3D GrF) is an interconnected, porous structure of graphene sheets with excellent mechanical, electrical and thermal properties, making it a candidate reinforcement for polymer matrices. GrF’s 3D structure eliminates nanoparticle agglomeration and provides seamless pathways for electron travel. The objective of this work is to fabricate low density GrF reinforced epoxy composites with superior mechanical and electrical properties and study the underlying deformation mechanisms. Dip coating and mold casting fabrication methods are employed in order to tailor the microstructure and properties. The composite’s microstructure revealed good interfacial interaction. By adding mere 0.63 wt.% GrF, flexural strength was improved by 56%. The addition of 2 wt.% GrF showed a surge in glass transition temperature (56oC), improvement in damping behavior (150%), and electrical conductivity 11 orders of magnitude higher than pure epoxy. Dip coated and mold casted composites showed a gauge factor of ~2.4 indicating electromechanically robust composite materials.
Identifier
FIDC001819
Recommended Citation
Embrey, Leslie, "Three-Dimensional Graphene Foam Reinforced Epoxy Composites" (2017). FIU Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 3128.
https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/3128
Included in
Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Commons, Polymer and Organic Materials Commons, Structural Materials Commons
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