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Flexible, Strong, Multifunctional Graphene Oxide/Silica-Based Composite Aerogels via a Double-Cross-Linked Network
Zheng Zheng1, Yongliang Zhao2, Jianhua Hu1
1State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|October 13, 2020
Summary
We developed a simple method to create graphene oxide (GO)/silica aerogels with enhanced mechanical and thermal properties. These multifunctional aerogels offer improved performance for demanding applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Composite Materials
Background:
- Multifunctional silica-based aerogels offer unique properties but face production challenges.
- High cost and complex preparation limit the large-scale application of aerogels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a cost-effective and simple method for preparing graphene oxide (GO)/silica-based composite aerogels.
- To enhance the mechanical properties, thermal stability, and functionality of silica aerogels using graphene oxide.
Main Methods:
- In situ sol-gel reaction using functionalized graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets.
- Surface modification of GO with polyethylenimine (PEI) and GPTMS.
- Cohydrolysis and condensation of MTMS and DMDMS, followed by ambient-pressure drying.
Main Results:
- GO nanosheets acted as cross-linking points, significantly improving mechanical strength and thermal stability.
- Young's modulus increased approximately fivefold with 0.5 wt % GO loading.
- Thermal insulation, flame resistance, and piezoresistive behavior were enhanced.
Conclusions:
- GO/silica-based composite aerogels demonstrate superior mechanical properties, thermal stability, and multifunctionality.
- The developed method offers a viable route for producing advanced aerogels.
- These composite aerogels show potential for applications in harsh and extreme environments.
