ABSTRACT
With the exceptional and outstanding characteristics such as mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties, graphene-reinforced rubber nanocomposites are capable with a promising future. The high aspect ratio structure of the graphene nanoplatelets is also efficient for forming a tortuous pathway in rubber matrix which will in turn provide a nanocomposite with extreme air impermeability properties. Even though the fabrication of graphene-nanocomposites with a fine dispersion of graphene is crucial for various applications, especially for barrier applications, in recent years, various strategies were proposed by researchers to obtain a controlled dispersion of graphene in the rubber matrix. In this chapter, butyl rubber and its variants based graphene composites were selected for discussion, since butyl rubber is best used for barrier applications. The various mixing methods used for the preparation of graphene nanocomposites with special reference to barrier applications are thoroughly discussed. Various modifications, including the modification of graphene and butyl rubber matrix, for controlling the dispersion of graphene are discussed in detail. This chapter gives an inclusive review in terms of preparation of graphene/butyl rubber nanocomposites for barrier applications.
