Scientific worth of polymer and graphene foam-based nanomaterials

Abstract

This is a state-of-the-art review on the current state and advancements in the field of polymer and graphene foam-based nanocomposites. Graphene is nanoallotrope of carbon having single layer of hexagonally arranged atoms in two-dimensional (2D) lattice. Graphene foam with one or few-layered graphene nanosheets have shown huge potential owing to unique three-dimensional (3D) structure and properties. Graphene foam has been reinforced in polymers such as epoxy, poly(vinyl alcohol), polydimethylsiloxane, polyaniline, and polypyrrole. Integration of 3D graphene-based framework has enhanced the mechanical properties of nanocomposites at minimal concentrations. Whereas, percolation limits of electrical and thermal advantages tend to require high concentrations to attain significant properties. The 3D graphene-based conductive structures have found potential in supercapacitors and energy devices because of large surface area, high electron transport, and low density. Combination of polymer and graphene foam network enables microstructural and conductivity changes needed for high performance electromagnetic interference shielding materials. Polymer and graphene foam-based materials are also demanding in water-oil separation systems due to specific surface area, high porosity, hydrophobic, oleophilic, and lightweight properties. Polymers with internal 3D foam network have been found useful for tissue in-growth and increased drug loading capacity leading to smart scaffolding material for biomedical applications.