Development and physiomechanical performance evaluation of graphene/carbon fiber-reinforced polymer nanocomposites for structural applications

This study demonstrates that incorporating graphene oxide and carbon fiber into the epoxy matrix enhances the material's physical and mechanical properties for structural applications. Using a cost-effective hand lay-up method, nanocomposite samples were prepared with graphene oxide at 1, 2, and 3 wt%. The uniform distribution of nanoparticles indicates the formation of peaks and the presence of elemental groups, as demonstrated by X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared analyses. Graphene oxide loading increases tensile strength and modulus by 33.02% and 19.427%, respectively, compared with the pristine sample. Similarly, the flexural strength and modulus improved by 34.481% and 28.241%, respectively, compared with unloaded polymer samples. Scanning electron microscopy was employed to investigate the failure mechanisms of the fractured surfaces of the nanocomposite specimens. Further, the viscoelastic, fire-retardant, and water-absorbent performance of the developed composite was evaluated. Loading graphene oxide significantly enhances the sample's physio-mechanical performance required for structural applications.