Reduced graphene oxide/hydroxylated styrene–butadiene–styrene tri-block copolymer electroconductive nanocomposites: Preparation and properties

Flexible and electroconductive nanocomposites based on reduced graphene oxide (RGO) and hydroxylated styrene–butadiene–styrene tri-block copolymer (HO-SBS) were prepared by solution blending method. By the introduction of the groups of OH and >CO onto SBS, the compatibility between RGO and SBS was enhanced. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) showed that RGO dispersed homogeneously and formed a compact continuous network in matrix (HO-SBS). The addition of RGO improved the thermal stability of the RGO/HO-SBS nanocomposites while slightly lowered the mechanical property. Moreover, RGO gave the nanocomposites a maximum electrical conductivity up to 1.3 S/m.

► RGO/HO-SBS nanocomposites are prepared successfully.
► The introduction of OH improves the compatibility between RGO and HO-SBS.
► RGO disperse homogeneously and form a compact continuous network in matrix (HO-SBS).
► The percolation threshold of the nanocomposites is of 0.2–0.5 wt% (0.09–0.23 vol%) and its conductivity is up to 1.3 S/m.