Improved performance of an epoxy matrix as a result of combining graphene oxide and reduced graphene

We present an easy and effective way to improve the mechanical properties of an epoxy matrix by reinforcing it with a combination of graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO). These nanocomposites were prepared with different load of nanofillers: 0.1, 0.4, 0.7, 1.0 wt% and a neat epoxy. Ratios of graphene oxide and reduced graphene (GO: RGO) employed were: 0: 1, 0.25: 0.75, 0.5: 0.5, 0.75: 0.25, and 1: 0. Results show that with only 0.4 wt% and a ratio 0.2: 0.75 of GO: RGO, tensile strength and tensile toughness are 52% and 152% higher than neat epoxy while modulus of elasticity was improved 20%. The obtained results suggest that it is possible achieve advantageous properties by combining graphene in oxidized and reduced conditions as it shows a synergic effect by the presence of both nanofillers.