Segregated poly(arylene sulfide sulfone)/graphene nanoplatelet composites for electromagnetic interference shielding...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Segregated conductive polymer composites offer excellent electromagnetic interference shielding (EMI) at low filler loadings.
• Poor interfacial adhesion between conductive fillers and polymer matrices often results in weak mechanical properties, limiting practical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel method for fabricating segregated poly(arylene sulfide sulfone) (PASS)/graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) composites.
• To enhance both EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) and mechanical strength of these composites.

Main Methods:

• A partial dissolution method was employed to create segregated PASS/GNP composites.
• Morphological analysis was conducted to examine the distribution of GNPs and interfacial interactions.
• Electrical conductivity and EMI shielding effectiveness were measured.

Main Results:

• The partial dissolution method effectively restricted GNPs within the dissolved outer layer, promoting strong interaction with the undissolved PASS core.
• The resulting PASS/GNP composites achieved high electrical conductivity (60.3 S m⁻¹) and EMI SE (41 dB) with only 5 wt% GNPs.
• Tensile strength significantly improved by 136% compared to conventionally mixed composites, reaching 36.4 MPa.

Conclusions:

• The partial dissolution method is a simple and effective approach for fabricating high-performance segregated polymer composites.
• These enhanced PASS/GNP composites demonstrate superior EMI shielding and mechanical properties, suitable for demanding applications.
• The use of PASS as a matrix provides excellent resistance to elevated temperatures and chemicals.