Chemical modifications of graphene and their influence on properties of polyurethane composites: a review

Polyurethane composites are materials of great interest nowadays due to their wide range of available forms and applications in industry. Controlling and achieving unique properties via matrix modifications and addition of various specific nanofillers seems be one of the key elements to success. The purpose of this work is to briefly present some examples of graphene nanoderivatives, their syntheses, properties and influence on polyurethane matrix after application. Structural, mechanical and electrical properties of graphene nanofillers were analyzed before and after implementation into polymer matrices. Additionally properties of obtained composites were considered in the context of shape memory. The first chapter presents methods of synthesizing carbon nanofillers and some structure investigations via x-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy. The second part discusses influence of graphene modifications on polymer structure and changes in thermomechanical properties via stress-strain tests and Thermogravimetry (TG).