Graphene Based Composites For Graphene Based Composites For Futre Futre ApplicationsApplications

Shaowei Zhang College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical

SciencesThe University of Exeter

OutlineOutline

Types of graphene based composites

Useful properties of graphene in

composites

Potential applications of various types of

graphhene composites

Graphene Based Composites (1)

Polymer-Graphene Composites

Metal-Graphene Composites

Ceramic-Graphene Composites

Graphene Based Composites (2)

Coating/Film/Paper Form

Sandwich Form

Bulk form

Useful Properties of Graphene in Useful Properties of Graphene in CompositesComposites

Functional (e.g., Electrical) properties

Thermal properties

Mechanical properties

+ Lightweight, unique morphology,

chemical stability.

Functional Graphene Composites (1)

Li-Ion Batteries:

1) Graphene-metal oxide (e.g., SnO2)

2) Graphene-CNT

3) Graphene-C60

Functional Graphene Composites (2)

Supercapacitors:

1) Graphene-oxide (e.g., ZnO, SnO2,

Co3O4, MnO2)

2) Graphene-polymer

3) Graphene-CNT

Functional Graphene Composites (3)

Solar Cells

1) Graphene-TiO2

2) Graphene-quantum dots

Photocatalysts

E.g., graphene-TiO2

Fuel Cells: Graphene-oxide

Thermal Conductive Graphene Thermal Conductive Graphene CompositesComposites

Intrinsic thermal conductivity: 3000–5000 W/mK

(>100 times >Cu)

Graphene-metal & Graphene-polymer composites

Potential applications: Electronic circuit boards,

heat sink and light weight high performance

thermal management systems.

Graphene Reinforced CompositesGraphene Reinforced Composites

Mechanical properties:

1) Stiffest (E > 1 Tpa),

2) Strength: >100-GPa tensile strength (40 times >

steel).

Morphology: 2D shape

Ideal reinforcement phases to make stronger and

tougher composites for various applications

Graphene Reinforced Composites: Graphene Reinforced Composites: Potential Applications Potential Applications

Lightweight composites for

aerospace & automotive industries

Lightweight body/vehicle armours

Biomaterials (biocompatibility +

reinforcement)

Composite brake discs