Investigation of the Crack Propagation in the Graphene/Synthetic Rubber Nanocomposite Materials with DIC Technique

This study investigated the crack propagation behavior of the graphene-reinforced synthetic rubber matrix nanocomposite materials. Graphene-filled rubber conductive nanocomposites developed within the scope of this study were obtained in two stages using mechanical mixers. The relationship between crack propagation and electrical resistance change was investigated using single-edge notched specimens in a tensile tester. Digital image correlation (DIC) technique was used to observe the crack resistance function depending on the local strain distribution. The results from the tests were evaluated to define the relationship between the crack length, the amount of conductive filler, and the change in electrical resistance. The sharp edges of the graphene nanoplatelets negatively affected the fracture resistance of the samples. In addition, it was observed that even at low strain values, gaps were formed in the areas close to the crack tip. The three-dimensional transmission network formed by graphene nanoplatelets dispersed in the matrix improved the electrical conductivity properties of the nanocomposites, so the relationship between crack propagation and electrical resistance change was determined.