POLYPROPYLENE NANOCOMPOSITES WITH HIGH THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY FORMULATED WITH COPPER NANOPARTICLES AND GRAPHENE NANOLAMINES.

Abstract

The object of the present invention relates to a method for preparing a composition based on an isotactic polypropylene (iPP) polymer matrix containing copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) and graphene nanosheets (GnP), alone or in combination. This novel composition exhibits high thermal conductivity values. The nanocomposites with Cu NPs were prepared with Cu NP contents ranging from 0.25% to 5% by weight, while the GnP contents ranged from 1% to 2.5%. The nanocomposites are obtained by melt mixing. This method avoids the use of toxic solvents, making it environmentally friendly. Furthermore, it is scalable to large quantities and can be assisted by ultrasound during the process. The resulting nanocomposites exhibit significant improvements in mechanical properties, thermal conductivity, and degradation temperature.The copper nanoparticles used are surface-coated with nitrogen binders to facilitate their dispersion within the iPP matrix and prevent oxidation during processing. In particular, this composition (nanocomposite) has applications in the manufacture of lightweight devices that help dissipate heat from any heat source.