The effect of graphene oxide on the mechanical, thermal characteristics and flame retardancy of polyurethane

ABSTRACT

Presence of GO in PU muffles discharge of heat, smoke and CO and CO2 into atmosphere. The maximum improvement in mechanical properties achieved by including 2.0 wt-% of GO in PU framework, indicating an increase in tensile stress and elongation at break of 155.1% and 27.7% compared to PU. Primary temperature of thermal degradation of PU/GO nanocomposite increased by 36.5°C with 3.0 wt-% of GO. Charred yield of PU/GO composites augmented due to GOs’ physical hindrance which limits diffusion of flammable gas. Muffling effect of GO in danger of flame and smoke exposure of polymer composites decreased by introduction of 3.0 wt-% of GO. Uniform distribution of GOs within PU matrix formed a strong, twisted route and sticky char in PU/GO composites and delayed thermal deterioration process. Thereby, this work introduces an important method for improving thermal stability and fire protection of PU providing an effective application for coating industry.

KEYWORDS:

• Graphene oxide
• polyurethane
• nanocomposite
• characterisation
• mechanical strength‌
• dynamic mechanical analysis‌
• thermal strength ‌
• flame retardant properties‌

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).