Investigation of mechanical properties of nano-graphene reinforced polymer composites

The demand for lightweight and durable materials in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and chemical engineering has driven research into advanced composite materials. This study investigates the interaction between nano-graphene and polymer matrices, focusing on how varying concentrations of nano-graphene can optimize mechanical properties and potentially revolutionize the design of structural components. Polymer composite materials were produced using glass fiber fabric and an epoxy resin system employing the hand lay-up method. Nano-graphene was incorporated into the matrix at weight percentages of 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8%, and 1%.Notably, the addition of 1% nano-graphene resulted in a significant tensile strength increase, achieving a maximum value of 186.73 MPa, compared to the control group at 53.71 MPa. This enhancement is attributed to the improved stress transfer mechanisms facilitated by the nano-graphene’s high surface area and exceptional mechanical properties. However, an unexpected decrease in bending strength was observed, with the glass fiber control group composites exhibiting the highest bending strength of 404.75 MPa. This trend suggests that while nano-graphene enhances tensile properties, it may introduce interfacial weaknesses or disrupt fiber alignment in bending scenarios. These findings reveal the complex nature of nano-graphene reinforcement, emphasizing the need for tailored formulations to balance tensile and bending performance. Further investigation into the interfacial bonding and distribution of nano-graphene within the polymer matrix is warranted to develop optimized composite materials for structural applications.