Strain Engineering in Highly Wrinkled CVD Graphene/Epoxy Systems

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Solid State Physics

Background:

• Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is a key method for large-scale production of graphene and 2D materials.
• Structural imperfections in CVD graphene, like folds and wrinkles, limit its commercial applications by degrading properties.
• Understanding these imperfections is crucial for optimizing graphene-based materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of structural imperfections in CVD graphene on its mechanical and electrical properties within epoxy composites.
• To evaluate the stress transfer efficiency and electrical response of CVD graphene under mechanical deformation.
• To explore the potential of CVD graphene/epoxy composites as conductive networks.

Main Methods:

• Raman spectroscopy was used to analyze stress transfer between epoxy matrix and CVD graphene.
• Mechanical deformation was applied to CVD graphene/epoxy composites.
• Electrical resistance measurements were conducted to assess conductivity changes.

Main Results:

• CVD graphene showed significantly lower stress transfer (30%) compared to exfoliated graphene.
• Mechanical deformation led to decreased electrical resistance in CVD graphene, indicating increased electron mobility.
• The observed electrical behavior is attributed to structural opening and enhanced electron mobility.

Conclusions:

• Structural imperfections in CVD graphene, while detrimental to mechanical transfer, can enhance electrical conductivity under deformation.
• CVD graphene/epoxy composites can function as conductive networks, maintaining or increasing conductivity during mechanical stress.
• These findings offer insights into controlling and utilizing CVD graphene for advanced conductive applications.