Improvement of the mechanical and flame-retardant properties of polyetherimide membranes modified with Graphene oxide.

Polyetherimide (PEI) membranes doped with different amounts (1–5 wt.%) of Graphene Oxide (GO) were prepared through a solution casting method. The effect of the Graphene Oxide incorporation on mechanical and flame-retardant properties was investigated by XDR, FTIR and SEM analyses. Results showed that the addition of 5 wt.% of GO into the membranes caused a 30% of improvement in the tensile strength and a significant increase in the glass transition temperature. Flame-retardant properties were improved when the amount of Graphene Oxide into PEI membrane was increased. These improvements in the membrane composites expand its application for aerospace and building industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]