Supercritical carbon dioxide assisted extrusion of graphene nanofiller reinforced polymers for biomedical applications

Nireeksha Karode, Laurence Fitzhenry, Siobhan Matthew, Philip Walsh, Austin Coffey

Research output: Contribution to conferencePaperpeer-review

Abstract

Over the years, the need for multifunctional medical tubing systems have grown tremendously subsequently increasing the precision tubing design and manufacturing consideration. The requirements smaller dimension along with enhanced mechanical and flexibility characteristics have resulted in elevating the complexity in manufacturing and design considerations, hence higher cost per device. A research gap exists in scientific understanding on the use of nanofillers to match similar characteristics medical tubes. This lack of understanding and industrial transition exists due to filler agglomeration at low aspect ratio and uneven dispersion within the polymer matrix. This study investigates ability of supercritical fluid technology to exfoliate graphene filler particles in order to enhance the mechanical, homogeneity and even dispersion of particles within Pebax matrix. A one step direct scCO2-assisted extrusion to exfoliate and provide even dispersion was demonstrated. These properties were verified using thermomechanical and electrical characterisation.

Original languageEnglish
Publication statusPublished - 2018
Event2018 Society of Plastics Engineers Annual Technical Conference, ANTEC 2018 - Orlando, United States
Duration: 07 May 201810 May 2018

Conference

Conference2018 Society of Plastics Engineers Annual Technical Conference, ANTEC 2018
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityOrlando
Period07/05/201810/05/2018

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