Polymer Science Unit, Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Jadavpur, Kolkata 700 032, India
Abstract:
High‐performance nanocomposites of NaCMC with GO are produced by solution casting. FESEM images reveal a good homogeneous dispersion of GO in the NaCMC matrix. The composite formation is facilitated by H‐bonding interaction between GO and NaCMC. Tg of the composites increases with increasing GO concentration. The storage modulus (G′) exhibits a maximum 174% increase over NaCMC at 1 wt% GO. The mechanical properties of the composites exhibit highest increase of tensile stress and Young's modulus of 188 ± 4% and 154 ± 11%, respectively, for 1 wt% GO. Analysis of Young's modulus (Ey) data using the Halpin‐Tsai equation suggests that the Ey data are close to the unidirectional orientation at >0.5 wt% GO, indicating more efficient load transfer at these compositions.