Modified Graphene/Polyimide Nanocomposites: Reinforcing and Tribological Effects Ting Huang Yuanshi Xin Tongsheng Li Steven Nutt Chao Su Haiming Chen Pei Liu Zuliang Lai 10.1021/am400635x.s001 https://acs.figshare.com/articles/journal_contribution/Modified_Graphene_Polyimide_Nanocomposites_Reinforcing_and_Tribological_Effects/2405611 By taking advantage of design and construction of strong graphene–matrix interfaces, we have prepared modified graphene/polyimide (MG/PI) nanocomposites via a two-stage process consisting of (a) surface modification of graphene and (b) <i>in situ</i> polymerization. The 2 wt % MG/PI nanocomposites exhibited a 20-fold increase in wear resistance and a 12% reduction in friction coefficient, constituting a potential breakthrough for future tribological application. Simultaneously, MG also enhanced thermal stability, electrical conductivity, and mechanical properties, including tensile strength, Young’s modulus, storage modulus, and microhardness. Excellent thermal stability and compatibility of interface, strong covalent adhesion interaction and mechanical interlocking at the interface, as well as homogeneous and oriented dispersion of MG were achieved here, contributing to the enhanced properties observed here. The superior wear resistance is ascribed to (a) tribological effect of MG, including suppression effect of MG in the generation of wear debris and protective effect of MG against the friction force, and (b) the increase in mechanical properties. In light of the relatively low cost and the unique properties of graphene, the results of this study highlight a pathway to expand the engineering applications of graphene and solve wear-related mechanical failures of polymer parts. 2013-06-12 00:00:00 friction coefficient tribological effect graphene storage modulus Tribological EffectsBy suppression effect friction force covalent adhesion interaction interface MG future tribological application polymer parts surface modification engineering applications