Polymer/graphene nanofoam nanocomposites: Properties and potential

Abstract

Graphene is a nano-allotrope of carbon. It is a two dimensional (2D) one atom thick single layer of sp2 hybridized carbon atoms. An important form of graphene is the three dimensional (3D) graphene, also known as graphene nanofoam. This review article précises progress in the field of 3D graphene-based polymeric nanocomposites. The 3D macroscopic graphene nanostructures when used to reinforce polymer matrices attain superior structural and physical properties. This article considers the design, fabrication, characteristics, and promising applications of polymer/graphene nanofoam nanocomposites. The graphene nanofoam and polymer/graphene nanofoam nanocomposites have been prepared through advance approaches. The microstructure, electrical conductivity, specific capacitance, radiation shielding, mechanical properties, and other physical properties of the polymer/graphene nanofoam architectures have been studied. Interactions between the polymers and 3D graphene architecture are essential to enhance the nanocomposite performance. Polymer/graphene nanofoam nanocomposites applications are for solar cells, fuel cells, supercapacitors, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding.