Multilayer graphene-modified TPU nanocomposites: Superior wear resistance and friction reduction at ultra-low filler content.

Saved in:

Bibliographic Details
Title:	Multilayer graphene-modified TPU nanocomposites: Superior wear resistance and friction reduction at ultra-low filler content.
Authors:	Legnani, Amanda¹ eng.amandalegnani@gmail.com, Marcomini, André Luis², Silva, Philipe Augusto Pocidonio³, de Sousa, Ricardo Geraldo⁴, Santos, Anderson Júnior dos¹, Santos, João Paulo Ferreira¹
Source:	Express Polymer Letters. Apr2026, Vol. 20 Issue 4, p326-341. 16p.
Subjects:	Wear resistance, Tribology, Polymeric composites, Graphene, Lubrication & lubricants, Materials science, Polyurethane elastomers, Nanocomposite materials
Abstract:	This work presents the development of high-performance thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites reinforced with low contents of multilayer graphene (mG), aiming to improve their tribological behavior. Using twin-screw extrusion followed by hot pressing, nanocomposites containing 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 1, and 2% mG weight were fabricated and systematically evaluated. Nanocomposites with only 0.1-0.25 wt% mG achieved a 36% reduction in friction coefficient and 87.5% reduction in wear volume compared to neat TPU. Results are rarely reported at such low filler loadings. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed uniform dispersion at these optimal concentrations, while higher mG contents led to agglomeration and performance loss. Rheological studies indicated improved flow behavior, and dynamic-mechanical analysis confirmed increased energy dissipation and thermal response. These results suggest that the concentrations of 0.1% and 0.25% of multilayer graphene used in the study are promising for improving the performance of TPU nanocomposites in applications requiring high wear resistance for advanced applications in automotive, biomedical, and high-load engineering components, where durability and low friction are essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
	Copyright of Express Polymer Letters is the property of Budapest University of Technology & Economics and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)
Database:	Engineering Source

Description
Abstract:	This work presents the development of high-performance thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites reinforced with low contents of multilayer graphene (mG), aiming to improve their tribological behavior. Using twin-screw extrusion followed by hot pressing, nanocomposites containing 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 1, and 2% mG weight were fabricated and systematically evaluated. Nanocomposites with only 0.1-0.25 wt% mG achieved a 36% reduction in friction coefficient and 87.5% reduction in wear volume compared to neat TPU. Results are rarely reported at such low filler loadings. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed uniform dispersion at these optimal concentrations, while higher mG contents led to agglomeration and performance loss. Rheological studies indicated improved flow behavior, and dynamic-mechanical analysis confirmed increased energy dissipation and thermal response. These results suggest that the concentrations of 0.1% and 0.25% of multilayer graphene used in the study are promising for improving the performance of TPU nanocomposites in applications requiring high wear resistance for advanced applications in automotive, biomedical, and high-load engineering components, where durability and low friction are essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:	1788618X
DOI:	10.3144/expresspolymlett.2026.26