Bio-Based PA11/Graphene Nanocomposites Prepared by In Situ Polymerization

Bio-based polyamide 11 (PA11)-graphene nanocomposites with different filler concentrations (0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.5 and 3 wt%) were prepared by in situ polymerization starting from a water dispersed suspension of graphene nanoplatelets. The effects of the incorporation of the filler were studied in terms of molecular, morphological, thermal and dynamic mechanical properties of the final materials. During the crystallization process from the melt, the filler induces a notable nucleating effect even if the crystal growth rate tends to decrease. The glass transition temperature tends to shift to higher temperatures indicating a decrement of the molecular mobility. Thermal stability is enhanced confirming a good filler dispersion into the matrix. Mechanical reinforcement, investigated by means of a dynamic mechanical thermal analyzer was also highlighted. It was observed that a graphene concentration of 0.75 wt% induces the highest final performances.