Graphite an exfoliated and organomodified filler for polymeric nanocomposites

Two types of graphite were processed using mechanical route to obtain the highest possible exfoliated graphite. Using three various media, commercial dishwashing liquid, mixture of defined concentration of 4 ammonium quaternal salts and single salt hexadecyl trimethylammonium bromide with addition of ethylene glycol, the liquid exfoliation shear-forces process was employed. The process provides defined exfoliated particles with small particles size and greater crystallinity compare to original graphite. Exfoliated particles were tested using scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy to explain the shape and morphology changes at shearing forces process. The particles were found as irregular rounded shapes with tiny crystals of used organic matter on the edges of particles. Such modification brings advantage for utilization exfoliated particles in polymeric nanocomposites because they will be more likely interacting with organic substance.