Understanding the role of graphene on the moisture absorption in graphene/polymer nanocomposites

Abstract

This study focuses on understanding the effect of graphene, when introduced in epoxy systems, on the overall moisture absorption capacity and behaviour of epoxy resin composites subjected to hydrothermal conditions. Pristine epoxy resin and epoxy resin incorporating functionalised and unfunctionalised graphene reinforcement were manufactured and exposed to 90°C purified water for 30 days. The flexural and tensile properties were observed for both unaged and aged specimens. A lower moisture absorption capacity was observed for graphene enhanced specimens as opposed to pristine epoxy resin, which suggests the potential of graphene as a barrier to moisture ingress. Despite the lower mass gain observed, the performance of the nano-filled resins exhibits a larger reduction in properties following water absorption.