Improved adhesive strength and toughness of polyvinyl acetate glue on addition of small quantities of graphene

Abstract

We have prepared composites of polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) reinforced with solution exfoliated graphene. We observe a 50% increase in stiffness and a 100% increase in tensile strength on addition of 0.1vol% graphene compared to the pristine polymer. As PVAc is commonly used commercially as a glue, we have tested such composites as adhesives. The adhesive strength and toughness of the composites were up to 4 and 7 times higher, respectively, than the pristine polymer.