Nanocomposites via a direct graphene-promoted “click”-reaction

The generation of graphene nanocomposites by curing of a new resin material via the Cu(I) catalyzed azide-alkyne click reaction (CuAAC) has been investigated by using graphene supported copper nanoparticles (TRGO-Cu2O) as catalyst directly embedded into the curing resin. Low molecular weight trivalent azide and alkyne were used as resin-components for “click” crosslinking by graphene supported copper nanoparticles (TRGO-Cu2O) in comparison to different commercially available homo- and heterogeneous copper catalysts. The kinetics of the crosslinking process were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and melt rheology, proving the superior performance of the (TRGO-Cu2O). Additionally the physical and mechanical properties of the finally cured resins were studied via melt-rheology, broadband dielectric spectroscopy (BDS) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), proving the outstanding catalytic activity of the TRGO-Cu2O catalyst performing “click” crosslinking without addition of base or oxidizing/reducing agents. Along with its catalytic performance, TRGO-Cu2O acts as reinforcing filler, significantly improving the mechanical and physical properties, as well as the conductivity and the thermal stability of the final resin material. [Display omitted] •Generation of graphene nanocomposites by curing of low molecular weight azides/alkynes via the CuAAC.•Graphene supported copper nanoparticles (TRGO-Cu2O) are used as catalyst directly embedded into the curing resin.•TRGO-Cu2O acts as reinforcing filler, improving the mechanical properties together with conductivity and their thermal stability.