Synthesis and Optimization of Polypyrrole-Grafted Graphene Oxide Nanohybrids

Abstract

Herein, we have synthesized polypyrrole grafted graphene oxide (GO-g-PPy) nanohybrids by a free radical emulsion graft polymerization method. GO was used as the substrate for pyrrole grafting. The parameters of the graft polymerization reaction were optimized. The optimum concentrations of surfactant, monomer and initiator were 0.25 wt. %, 3 vol.%, and 7 wt.%, respectively. The maximum grafting percentage was 989.6% at these optimal reaction parameters. The formation of the grafted nanohybrids was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermal stability studies were carried out by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). GO-g-PPy naohybrids can be used as functional additives or conductive materials for EMI shielding applications.