Functionalization of graphene using trimethoxysilanes and its reinforcement on polypropylene nanocomposites

Functionalized reduced graphene oxide (RGO) was obtained by reaction of graphene oxide with dodecyl (12C), octyl (8C) and propyl (3C) trimethoxysilane and subsequent reduction using hydrazine hydrate. The RGO-12C was incorporated into polypropylene matrix as a reinforcing component by solution mixing. The resulting nanocomposites displayed a significant improvement in thermal stability, crystallinity and mechanical properties.