Spray deposition of sustainable plant based graphene in thermosetting carbon fiber laminates for mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties

Graphene has generated substantial interest as a filler due to its exceptional strength, flexibility, and conductivity but faces obstacles in supply and implementation. A renewable, plant-based graphene nanoparticle (pGNP) presents a more accessible filler with the same properties as mineral graphenes. In this study, we examine the effects of pGNP, which was sprayed on a carbon fiber/epoxy prepreg at loadings from 1.1 to 4.2 g/m(2). The study considered the mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of pGNP-composite. An even particle dispersion was achieved using a spray application of pGNP in a water/alcohol suspension with the addition of surfactants and dispersion aides. Results show that pGNP addition increases flexural modulus 15%, flexural strength 17%, interlaminar shear strength 17%, and mode I fracture toughness by 146%, as well as increases electrical conductivity 294% and thermal conductivity 24%, with these improvements observed at 1.1-2.3 g/m(2) spray loadings.