Electrical Conductivity Improvement of Epoxy Resin Using Expanded Graphite

Composite materials have a wide application in aerospace, automotive, and other industries which is because of their superior structural and weight performances. Since carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites possess a much lower electrical conductivity as compared to traditional metallic materials utilized for aircraft structures, serious concern about damage resistance against lightning has been rising. The introduction of highly electrically conductive expanded graphite in polymers can functionally improve the electrical conductivity of epoxy resins. In this study, expanded graphite is introduced into epoxy polymer matrix using combined preheating aided mechanical stirring and then ultrasonic aided solution blending method.