Investigation and Modeling of the Electrical Conductivity of Graphene Nanoplatelets-Loaded Doped-Polypyrrole

Abstract

In this study, a hybrid of graphene nanoplatelets with a polypyrrole having 20 wt.% loading of carbon-black (HGPPy.CB20%), has been fabricated. The thermal stability, structural changes, morphology, and the electrical conductivity of the hybrids were investigated using thermogravimetric analyzer, differential scanning calorimeter, X-ray diffraction analyzer, scanning electron microscope, and laboratory electrical conductivity device. The morphology of the hybrid shows well dispersion of graphene nanoplatelets on the surface of the PPy.CB20% and the transformation of the gravel-like PPy.CB20% shape to compact spherical shape. Moreover, the hybrid’s electrical conductivity measurements showed percolation threshold at 0.15 wt.% of the graphene nanoplatelets content and the curve is non-linear. The electrical conductivity data were analyzed by comparing different existing models (Weber, Clingerman and Taherian). The results show that Taherian and Clingerman models, which consider the aspect ratio, roundness, wettability, filler electrical conductivity, surface interaction, and volume fractions, closely described the experimental data. From these results, it is evident that Taherian and Clingerman models can be modified for better prediction of the hybrids electrical conductivity measurements. In addition, this study shows that graphene nanoplatelets are essential and have a significant influence on the modification of PPy.CB20% for energy storage applications.

Fabrication and Model Characterization of the Electrical Conductivity of PVA/PPy/rGO Nanocomposite

“…Moreover, acetone was purchased from Sigma Aldrich and deionized water was sourced from the CSIR, Pretoria laboratory. Refer to [19] for the electrical conductivity measurement method. Moreover, according to the experimental and the Gaussian model results shown in Figure 6, respectively, the electrical conductivity of polymer-composites depends largely on the quantity of fillers in the matrix [34].…”

“…Moreover, acetone was purchased from Sigma Aldrich and deionized water was sourced from the CSIR, Pretoria laboratory. Refer to [19] for the electrical conductivity measurement method.…”

“…The Mamunya model [17], which is an example of a thermodynamic model, was described by Clingerman as most suitable for the prediction of the electrical conductivity of polyacrylonitrile filled carbon fibers. Several authors [18][19][20][21] have enunciated the dependency of polymer-composites' conductivity on some parameters. Of course, previous models are viable and useful for the prediction of the electrical conductivity of polymer-composite.…”

Numerical Investigation and Response Surface Optimization of the Effective Modulus and Electrical and Thermal Conductivities of the Borophene Nanoplatelet-Reinforced PEDOT:PSS Nanocomposite for Energy Storage Application

“…The increasing expansion of wearable and portable devices has raised research interest in flexible energy storage systems with the best performance. , In this direction, polymers have a crucial role in developing efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly electrochemical power sources . Electrically conductive and thermally stable materials are necessary for the correct operation of energy storage devices. , As such, the emphasis of the ongoing research is on polymeric materials for electrochemical power devices that possess good stability and conductivity and are affordable. Energy conversion and storage applications for polymer and polymeric composite materials with customizable characteristics have been investigated .…”

“… 3 Electrically conductive and thermally stable materials are necessary for the correct operation of energy storage devices. 4 , 5 As such, the emphasis of the ongoing research is on polymeric materials for electrochemical power devices that possess good stability and conductivity and are affordable. Energy conversion and storage applications for polymer and polymeric composite materials with customizable characteristics have been investigated.…”