Preparation and characterization of graphite/thermosetting composites

Graphite/thermosetting composites were prepared via a melt blending and compression–curing process using epoxy and phenolic resins as polymer matrices. The flexural strength, flexural modulus and electrical conductivity of the composites were investigated. The composites containing 55 wt% graphite showed the maximum flexural strength and modulus. Scanning electron microscopy results showed that the thermosetting resins and graphite were uniformly dispersed on the fractured surface of the composites. The electrical conductivity of the composites increased with an increase in the graphite content. The flexural and electrical properties of the composites improved significantly by the addition of a carbon fibre cloth (CFC) or a CFC and carbon nanotubes.