Evaluation of polyvinyl chloride composite containing carbon fillers for potential use in protective footwear resistant to high temperature and fuel oil

This study evaluated the functional performance of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composites reinforced with carbon fillers, specifically graphene nanoplatelets and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), for potential use in protective footwear outsoles designed to resist high temperatures and fuel oil exposure. Three material variants were prepared: unmodified PVC, PVC with 0.5 wt% graphene and PVC with 0.5 wt% graphene + 0.5 wt% MWCNT. These materials were subjected to comprehensive evaluation, including chemical composition analysis via energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry, hardness, fuel oil resistance, thermal conductivity measurements and surface morphology characterization. The results showed that carbon fillers improved both mechanical and thermal properties. The composite exhibited a 25% increase in hardness and approximately 19% higher thermal conductivity compared to unmodified PVC. However, exposure to fuel oil caused significant degradation of all composites and increase in surface hardness. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed structural damage, filler agglomeration and filler-free surface layers in areas exposed to heat.