Effect of Covalent-Functionalized Graphene Oxide with Polymer and Reactive Compatibilization on Thermal Properties of Maleic Anhydride Grafted Polypropylene

Abstract

The covalent functionalization of graphene oxide (GO) with bis­(3-aminopropyl)-terminated poly­(ethylene glycol) (NH₂–PEG–NH₂) and subsequent grafting with maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP) oligomer matrix using reactive compatibilization were carefully analyzed and verified through detailed investigations. Improvements in the compatibility between the modified GO and the matrix, thermal stability, flame properties, and crystallization properties were achieved through the addition of a small amount of GO-grafted MAPP (PP-<i>g</i>-GO). Results of thermogravimetric and microscale combustion calorimetry analyses revealed an increase in <i>T</i>_max by 51 °C and reductions in the total heat release and peak heat release rate by 44.4% and 38.9%, respectively, upon the addition of 2.0 wt % PP-<i>g</i>-GO relative to pure MAPP. The approach used in this work is an efficient strategy for improving the thermal behavior of polypropylene oligomer with a view toward extending its use in advanced technological applications