Mechanical and thermal properties of rigid PVC and graphene nanocomposites obtained by melt–mixing

Abstract

The effect of graphene (0.01, 0.1, 0.5 and 1 wt%) on the mechanical properties and thermal stability of rigid PVC was investigated. The morphology and thermal  properties were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetric thermal  analysis (TGA). Additionally, tensile properties, impact  strength and hardness were determined. It was found  that the addition of graphene can increase the impact strength and hardness and extend the thermal stability time of PVC.