Enhanced dispersion stability and interfacial damping of POSS-functionalized graphene oxide in PDMS nanocomposites

Abstract

Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) functionalized graphene oxide (GO) is prepared to improve the dispersity of GO nanofillers in a polydimethylsiloxane matrix. Improved interfacial affinity of the GO-POSS with a polymer matrix is characterized by a small amplitude oscillatory shear test. We confirm that the POSS-functionalized GO induces better filler dispersibility and less filler aggregation in the matrix, resulting in enhanced elasticity in the solution. After curing, the POSS interface works as a soft and lubricating layer at the interface, which enhances interfacial damping within the nanocomposites.