Graphene Reinforced Regenerated Cellulose Nanocomposite Fibers Prepared by Lyocell Process

Nanocomposites of regenerated cellulose containing different amounts of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) (0.5, 1, and 2 wt%) have been prepared by wet spinning using Lyocell process. The thermal stability, mechanical, and electrical properties of the nanocomposite fibers were studied. The nanocomposite fibers were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The tenacity and initial modulus of the nanocomposite fibers improved by 66% and 61%, respectively with the addition of 2 wt% GNPs. The T-20 decomposition temperature of regenerated cellulose fibers improved with the addition of GNPs up to 2 wt%. The morphology by SEM revealed exfoliated dispersion of GNPs into the regenerated cellulose matrix which subsequently resulted in good interaction between the nanofillers and the matrix. The addition of exfoliated GNPs generated electrical conductivity. The nanocomposite fibers containing 2 wt% GNPs has a conductivity of 2.3 x 10(-4) S/cm. The FTIR spectra showed that the addition of GNPs in regenerated cellulose did not result in any noticeable change in its chemical structure. The resulting nanocomposite may find potential applications in the areas of carbon fiber precursor, conductive fibers, electrical tools, and biodegradable composites. (C) 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers