Investigation of the elastic properties of poly (methylmethacrylate) reinforced with graphene nanoplatelets

Abstract

The technique for synthesis of poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) by atomtransfer radical polymerization has been strengthened by using graphenenanoplatelets (GNPs) to enhance the elastic properties of the polymer. In orderto improve practical, economical and mechanical performance, the requirementsfor effective implementation of production control as a smart bulk polymernanocomposite were determined for cost-effective bulk production. Three-dimensional inspection (using an ultrasound interrogation method for the wholevolume under test) confirmed the synthesis of the nanocomposite to be free ofagglomeration and bubbles. As a result of this elimination of defects, anenhancement in compressive strengthof 42.7% was achieved and the Rock-well hardness was increased by 19.9% through the addition of GNPs at 2 wt%by mass. The deformation and mechanical failure properties have been char-acterized in the mechanical enhancement of the polymer nanocomposite.Elastic parameters determined using ultrasound testing identified thatchanges in the structural features following the addition of these GNPs wereuniquely connected to the enhancements in these elastic parameters (such asYoung's modulus, Poisson's ratio, shear modulus, and microhardness) of thePMMA/GNPs nanocomposite.