Graphene-based polymeric nano-composites: an introspection into functionalization, processing techniques and biomedical applications

Abstract

Although, there have been numerous efforts in synthesis of polymers, their mechanical properties have limited their applications. Graphene has been investigated for excellent properties such as superior mechanical properties, high thermal conductivity that has attracted the attention of scientific community to employ graphene as a filler material in polymeric matrices to form composites with multi-functional capabilities. The excellent properties possessed by Graphene has motivated users to fabricate flexible nanocomposites that can be used for applications requiring superior mechanical, chemical and thermal performances. Characteristics of both the components if explored synergistically through proper structural and interfacial organization. The investigation in this direction has resulted into combination of graphene with variety of polymeric materials and hence the development of different graphene-based nanocomposites. The present work reviews the application of graphene-based nanocomposites in the biomedical domain. With this objective, the polymeric matrices suitable for biomedical applications as well as the techniques of producing graphene polymeric nanocomposites have been discussed. Finally the application particularly in biosensing, wound healing and drug delivery system has been discussed.