INFLUENCE OF INCORPORATION OF REDUCED GRAPHENE OXIDE ON THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF PVC COMPOSITES: AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY

Abstract

This study evaluated the influence of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) on the mechanical properties of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The rGO, obtained by the modified Hummers method, was incorporated at concentrations of 0.05%, 0.1%, and 0.2% through melt mixing. The samples were analyzed by SEM, FTIR, and tensile tests (ASTM D412). It was found that the addition of rGO, especially at 0.05%, significantly increased Young’s modulus, confirming its reinforcing potential. Morphological analysis revealed better filler dispersion at lower concentrations. It is concluded that rGO is a promising strategy to improve the mechanical performance of PVC and expand its industrial applications.