A study exploring the impact of graphene on the mechanical behaviour of silicone rubber-based nanocomposite

Previous research has shown that the impact of different particles on the mechanical and thermal properties of silicone rubber (SR) can vary greatly. Some researchers believe that these particles have positive effects, while others hold a different view. However, there is still uncertainty surrounding the specific effect of graphene on the mechanical behaviour of silicone rubber. To address this gap in the literature, the authors aim to investigate the role of graphene particles on the mechanical properties of room temperature vulcanised (RTV) silicone rubber. In this research, graphene nanosheets were used as reinforcement for silicone rubber. Different weight percentages of 0, 0.25, 0.5, and 1 were utilised. The mechanical behaviour of the prepared composites was examined through tension and compression tests. Additionally, the fracture surface of the tensile samples was analysed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) Cambridge Streo Scan model. Results indicate that the inclusion of 0.25 wt% graphene leads to a 10% increase in tensile strength and a 31% increase in elastic modulus compared to the pure state of silicone rubber. Furthermore, the presence of graphene nanosheets enhances the compressive strength from 3.21 MPa in pure silicone to 5.49 MPa at a weight percentage of 0.5%, while also reducing the compression rate of the silicone rubber.