Synthesis, mechanical, thermal, and electrical characterization of graphite–epoxy composites

Herein, we present a simple procedure for fabricating epoxy/graphite composites using a simple solution blending method. The addition of graphite filler in the epoxy matrix showed a beneficial effect on mechanical properties by enhancing Young's modulus up to 55.25% of its value. The highest thermal conductivity was obtained to be 1.53 ± 0.07 W· m−1· K−1, which depicts a fourfold increment as compared to the neat matrix. The effective thermal conductivity has been predicted using Nan model, which shows a satisfactory agreement with the experimental data. Besides, the investigated composites display enhanced electrical conductivity; this evolution of electrical conductivity as a function of filler volume fraction is well described using percolation theory. Thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry have been used to determine the thermal properties of the composites as a function of filler volume fraction. These findings indicate that the thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties of epoxy/graphite composites could be ideal for thermal management and control of heat transfer devices. A simple mixing process has been used to produce epoxy/graphite composites to achieve high thermal and electrical conductivities. Graphite fillers in epoxy matrix with different filler contents were successfully prepared. In addition, the obtained composites were investigated based on the structural, thermal, electrical and mechanical properties.