Pyridine-functionalized graphene/polyimide nanocomposites; mechanical, gas barrier, and catalytic effects

In this paper, we describe a functionalization route for synthesizing pyridine-functionalized reduced graphene oxide (Py-rGO) and the effect in the polymer matrix. In addition, polyimide (PI) nanocomposites with different loadings of Py-rGO are fabricated by in-situ polymerization. Py-rGO can perform as a filler component, which enhances the mechanical properties of the composites as well as promote polycondensation as a catalyst. As a result, the PIs containing Py-rGO are obtained with a high degree of imidization and the nanocomposite films show improved mechanical properties and oxygen barrier properties compared to pure PI. To be specific, the tensile strength and tensile modules of the nanocomposite with 0.5 wt% loading of Py-rGO are enhanced by about 406% (527 MPa) and 928% (59 GPa) in comparison to those of pure PI, respectively. Furthermore, the oxygen barrier properties of the composites are extremely improved.