Controlled Linear Assemblies of Graphite Flakes Anchoring Polysiloxane-Based Nanocomposite Films and Enhancement of Thermal Properties

Abstract

Polysiloxane-based nanocomposites were fabricated by controlled linear assemblies of graphite flakes (GFs) while applying electric and magnetic fields. The orientation of the longitudinal axis of GFs can be controlled and constructed linear assemblies of GFs (LAGFs) by anchoring composite film surfaces with increased thickness of LAGF structure by the field-induced assembly. The different effects of applying magnetic and electric fields during the assembly of GFs in a polymer matrix are investigated. Analysis revealed that the formation of densely packed LAGFs induced by modulating the electric field is directly related to a significant enhancement in the thermal diffusivity and optical transmission of the composites. (C) 2013 The Japan Society of Applied Physics