Graphene oxide nanoflakes as an efficient dispersing agent for nanoclay lamellae in an epoxy-phenolic nanocomposite coating: Mechanistic approach

A lab-synthesized graphene oxide (GO) is utilized as a dispersing agent for nanoclay (NC) in epoxy-phenolic. Various weight ratios of GO/NC as composite particles are prepared. They are used at 1 wt% concentration. Analytical techniques, i.e. X-ray diffraction and thermo-gravimetric analysis are used. The results show the composite particles have obtained greater d-spacing. They certify that GO has been able to cover up the clay lamellae like a surfactant. Mechanical performance is evaluated by both dynamic and static mechanical measurements as well as fracture morphology assessment. The outcomes show the composite particles have been able to simultaneously increase the mechanical strength and fracture energy. Some composite particle-containing samples show an increase of 23.5% in storage modulus, 36.3% in Young modulus and 51% in fracture energy. The fracture patterns likewise show much more scattered paths, an evidence for the enhanced state of dispersion of the composite particles.