PMMA-rGO nanocomposite: synthesis techniques and applications

Abstract

This review explores the growing interest in poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) reinforced with reduced graphene oxide (rGO), a nanocomposite that brings together the best of both materials— PMMA’s transparency and ease of processing with rGO’s remarkable strength, conductivity, and thermal stability. This review highlights various synthesis methods, including in situ polymerization, solution blending, and melt mixing, each offering different advantages depending on the intended application. By incorporating even small amounts of rGO, significant improvements in PMMA’s mechanical and thermal properties, along with the added benefit of tunable electrical conductivity have been observed. These enhancements make the composite a strong candidate for use in flexible electronics, optoelectronic devices, biomedical implants, and protective coatings. The review also discusses the challenges that come with ensuring uniform dispersion of rGO, achieving strong interfacial bonding, and addressing environmental or health concerns associated with nanomaterials. Despite these hurdles, the findings suggest that with continued innovation in synthesis techniques and a better understanding of structure–property relationships, PMMA-rGO nanocomposites hold great promise for next-generation materials. This review concludes by identifying key areas where further research is needed, particularly in scaling up production and evaluating long-term performance in real-world application.