Graphene in a single-layer form of graphite with sp2 hybridized carbon atoms bonded in hexagonal crystalline structure. Graphene nanoribbons are strips with high aspect ratio and may consist of one or more layers of graphene. They have a quasi 1D structure and possess additional interesting properties compared to graphene. Despite its thickness of just a few atoms, it is one of the most durable materials with excellent thermal and electrical properties. Because of these unique properties, many studies are underway to improve the mechanical, thermal and electrical properties of materials. One of the possible applications of graphene nanoribbons is the improvement the mechanical properties of composite materials. However, dispersibility of graphene nanoribbons into epoxy resin, which is a key step in the manufacture of composite materials, represents a barrier in application. Through the functionalization process graphene nanoribbons can be modified to enhance dispersibility. Herein, I synthesized non-functionalized graphene nanoribbons and graphene nanoribbons functionalized with epichlorohydrin. This was followed by the dispersion of the prepared nanoribbons into epoxy resin and the production of composite materials. The characterization methods were used to determine the yield of synthesis and degree of functionalization. Further, the mechanical measurements were done to determine mechanical properties of graphene based nanocomposite materials.
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