Influence of graphene oxide on flexural strength, modulus of elasticity and micro hardness of poly ethyl methacrylate

Background and Aim: graphene is a two-dimensional nanostructure consist of a single layer of SP2 carbon atoms that arranged by covalent bonds in a hexagonal bee web. The reinforcement by GO is due to functional groups that lead to strong interaction, dispersion and stress distribution. Due to lower mechanical properties and strength of PEMA than PMMA, we evaluate effect of GO on mechanical properties of PEMA. Materials and methods: In this invitro-exprimental study, flexural strength, elastic modulus, Knoop micro hardness and SEM examination of 30 acrylic sample with dimensions 2(width)×2(height)×2(length) in 3 groups was evaluated. Results: The maximum mean Knoop micro hardness was related to 0.25%wt GO and the lowest value was related to 0.5%wt GO groups. The mean flexural strength and modulus of elasticity of the control group were higher. Conclusion: GO can increase micro hardness of PEMA in low value, thus the use of GO can be recommended to improve mechanical properties of PEMA. GO did not increase elastic modulus and flexural strength.