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Synthesis and Functionalization of 3D Nano-graphene Materials: Graphene Aerogels and Graphene Macro Assemblies
Published on: November 5, 2015
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3D-Printed, High-Porosity, High-Strength Graphite Aerogel
Dapeng Liu1, Chaoji Chen1, Yubing Zhou1
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA.
Small Methods
|December 20, 2021
Summary
A novel 3D printed foam from graphite-cellulose nanofibers offers a sustainable alternative to plastic foams. This degradable and recyclable material exhibits superior strength and fire resistance, addressing global pollution concerns.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Sustainable Engineering
Background:
- Global demand for plastic foam is substantial and growing.
- Conventional plastic foams cause severe pollution due to their slow degradation.
- There is a critical need for eco-friendly foam alternatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a degradable, recyclable, and cost-effective foam material.
- To utilize abundant resources like graphite and cellulose.
- To leverage advanced 3D printing for foam fabrication.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of graphite-cellulose nanofibers (G-CNF) foam using 3D printing.
- Dispersion of graphite in cellulose nanofibers via sonication without chemical reactions.
- Tuning rheological properties for 3D printing processability.
Main Results:
- The G-CNF foam demonstrates enhanced mechanical strength (tensile and compressive) compared to polystyrene foam.
- The material exhibits improved fire resistance, degradability, and recyclability.
- Successful large-scale 3D printing of G-CNF foam with designed shapes was achieved.
Conclusions:
- G-CNF foam presents a viable, sustainable alternative to conventional plastic foams.
- This innovation offers a potential solution to mitigate plastic pollution.
- The developed material supports a circular economy approach in foam production.
