Executive Summary
Conductive polymers are used in a variety of applications including packaging and electronics. MSU researchers have developed an inexpensive method of preparing conductive polymers containing graphene nanoplatelets produced by microwave methods from exfoliated graphite, that have excellent mechanical, barrier, thermal and electrical properties. The materials can be processed by conventional means such as injection molding, extrusion, blow molding and conventional film processes.
Description of the Technology
The invention uses graphene nanoplatelets exfoliated from graphite to form nanoplatelets a few nanometers in thickness and from 15 to 200 microns in length. The nanoplatelets are added to a polymer in a small amount to achieve percolation to produce enhanced thermal and or electrical conductivity along with increased gas and liquid barrier performance coupled with increases in mechanical properties. These effects have been shown to be achievable with both thermoset and thermoplastic polymers.
Benefits
Applications
Patent Status
Issued US Patent 8,501,858B2
Licensing Rights
Full licensing rights available
References
Materials Science and Engineering B: Solid-State Materials for Advanced Technology, 2017
Nanotechnology Paper, 2018
Advanced Composites and Hybrid Materials Article, 2021
Inventors
Dr. Lawrence Drzal, Dr. Hiroyuki Fukushima
TECH ID
TEC2006-0070