Preparation and mechanical properties of nylon 6-graphene nanocomposites

Abstract

The main aim of the research work presented in this thesis was the development of nanocomposites with a more desirable combination of mechanical properties like stiffness, strength and toughness. Nylon 6, graphene based nanoparticles like graphene nanoplatelets (GnP) and graphene oxide (GO), toughening agent like thermoplastic elastomer and compatibilizer were used for the preparation of nanocomposites. An important objective of this work was to control and enhance the dispersion of graphene based nanoparticles and overcome the agglomeration and its adverse effects on the mechanical properties. Addition of the toughening agent was meant to enhance the toughness of nylon 6 which was adversely effected by graphene based nanoparticles, while the compatibilizer enhanced the interaction between nylon 6 and the elastomer. An enhancement in the desired mechanical properties was observed along with an influence on the morphology of the resultant nanocomposites by the addition of different nanoparticles and toughening agents.

Thesis embargoed until 31 December 2023.

Date of Award	Dec 2021
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Queen's University Belfast
Sponsors	EC-Horizon 2020
Supervisor	Brian Falzon (Supervisor), Biqiong Chen (Supervisor) & Giuseppe Catalanotti (Supervisor)