Functionalized‐graphene reinforced polyethersulfone nanocomposites with improved physical and mechanical properties

Abstract

Abstract We have explored graphene oxide (GO) and sulfonic acid‐functionalized graphene oxides (GOSO 3 H) as efficient reinforcements to improve the performances of the polyethersulfone (PES). In contrast to GO, the numerous terminal SO 3 − groups in GOSO 3 H nanosheets not only promoted the filler dispersion in PES matrix, but also formed strong interfacial adhesion via H‐bonding and dipole‐dipole interactions. The tensile strength of PES was enhanced by around 3‐folds and 5‐folds upon incorporation 5 wt% GO and GOSO 3 H nanosheets, respectively. The improvement of tensile modulus of PES is considerably higher with GOSO 3 H nanosheets compared to GO. The superior tensile properties of the PES/GOSO 3 H nanocomposites could be ascribed to the better dispersion of GOSO 3 H nanosheets and the efficient stress transfer between PES matrix and GOSO 3 H nanosheets, which is well supported by X‐ray diffraction and morphological analyses. The loading capacity of the GOSO 3 H was found be higher than that of GO. The dc conductivity of the PES/GOSO 3 H nanocomposites was recorded greater than that of the GO‐reinforced nanocomposites. The thermo‐oxidative stability of the PES matrix was substantially improved upon inclusion of both the GO and GOSO 3 H, but the GOSO 3 H showed better effects. Overall, the as‐prepared PES/GOSO 3 H hybrid nanocomposite can be used as potential material in different membrane applications.