Synthesis of PMMA/graphene Nanocomposite via miniemulsion polymerization

In this study, graphene nanoplatelets were synthesized from electrochemical intercalation of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) into graphite followed by electrochemical exfoliation of a SDS-intercalated graphite electrode. The produced suspension of graphene in SDS/water solution was used to prepare PMMA/graphene nanocomposite via miniemulsion polymerization. FTIR analysis was used to study the chemical structure of Nanocomposites. Their morphology was analyzed by XRD, SEM, and TEM. Electrical impedance analysis was used to evaluate electrical conductivity of nanocomposites. Thermal properties were assessed by TGA and DTG. Results of these tests revealed that PMMA Nanocomposites were formed in the presence of graphene suspension and PMMA molecules diffused into exfoliated graphene layers. The electrical conductivity and thermal resistance of nanocomposites were increased by addition of graphene to the polymer matrix.