Enhanced mechanical performances of epoxy asphalt adhesives modified by graphene oxide

The graphene oxide (GO) was used to improve the mechanical performances of epoxy asphalt (EA) by preparing GO/EA composite. The influence of the GO dosage on the micro-structure, curing rheology, mechanical and thermal properties of GO/EA was investigated. According to the XRD and Fourier transform infrared spectra, the GO was exfoliated in the EA matrix and modified EA by non-covalent strategy. GO decreased the rotational viscosity of EA and increased the pot life. The GO/EA with 0.1 wt.% GO showed excellent toughness that the elongation at break was increased by 164%, and the tensile and pull-off adhesion strength were nearly equal to that of EA. The addition of GO improved the original thermal decomposition temperature (T5%), glass transition temperature (Tg), compatibility and stiffness of the EA. The improved mechanical and thermal properties of GO/EA may be attributed to (1) excellent performances of GO and (2) inhibiting effect of GO on the EA curing process.