The effect of carbon nanotubes and graphene on the mechanical properties of multi-component polymeric composites

Two types of nano-materials (nanotubes and graphene) were incorporated at different concentrations into a bio-compatible polymer matrix, and the mechanical properties of the composite films were studied. Although both nanomaterials improved the mechanical attributes of the polymer, it was found that the composites containing the nanotube–graphene mixture exhibited significantly superior elasto-plastic properties. This work presents a facile technique of fabricating nano-composites that could be scaled up and applied to various types of polymers. These multi-component films have the potential to be used in a wide range of applications including bio-medicine and photovoltaics, as well as the military and automotive industry.