Electrical conductive and graphitizable polymer nanofibers grafted on graphene nanosheets: Improving electrical conductivity and flame retardancy of polypropylene

Polyaniline (PANI) nanofibers grafted reduced graphene oxide (PANI-RGO) is prepared using the “grafting-from” strategy and then is incorporated into polypropylene (PP) matrix by way of the master batch-based melt mixing method. Grafted PANI nanofibers can improve the dispersion and electrical conductivity of reduced graphene oxide (RGO). The electrical conductivity of the modified RGO and its composites is not impaired by the grafted polymer, due to the conductive characteristics of PANI. The barrier action of PANI-RGO can greatly inhibit the release of flammable pyrolysis products of PP. PANI-RGO exhibits a marked flame retardancy effect on PP. The smoke release of the composites is slightly retarded. Transmission electron microscopy image and Raman spectrum of the char residue for PANI-RGO based composite indicate the formation of carbon nanofibers during combustion. The in situ formed carbon nanofibers on graphene nanosheets can enhance barrier performance against heat and mass transfer, resulting in enhanced flame retardancy.