Epoxy-graphite oxide nanocomposites: Mechanical properties

Graphite oxide (GO) produced by Hummers method was added to epoxy for strengthening purpose. Generally the E-modulus was increased due to the GO addition; however, depending on the treatment of the GO an increase or decrease was observed for the glass transition temperature. The change in glass transition was a result of changes in the curing behavior. Addition of GO initially increased the curing speed; however, the final curing degree was lower and was dependent on the type of GO added.