Graphene Oxide and Natural Silk as Reinforcements for Epoxy Resin Matrix: Fabrication, Sample Preparation, and Testing

The integration of graphene oxide (GO) and natural silk into epoxy matrices offers a promising approach to developing high-performance composites for structural applications. This study examines the fabrication processes, focusing on sample preparation and testing of GO and natural silk-reinforced epoxy composites. A comprehensive literature review spanning 1990 to 2024 provides insights into the necessity of Vacuum-Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) at 30 PSI, the role of ultrasonication in achieving homogeneous GO dispersion, strategies to prevent agglomeration, optimal reinforcement proportions, and challenges encountered during hybridization. Key findings, including the impact of high silk volume fractions (60–70%) on mechanical properties, are incorporated, offering a comprehensive guide for composite fabrication. The findings underscore the critical parameters for successful composite fabrication and performance enhancement. Key Words: Graphene Oxide, Natural Silk, Epoxy Composites, VARTM, Ultrasonication, Hybrid Reinforcements, Structural Applications