Morphology, flammability, and properties of graphite reinforced polymer composites. Systematic review

Increasing concern for the environment and economy has stimulated interest in the research and development of graphite polymer composites. Graphite is naturally abundant and has significant influence on the thermal conductivity, flammability properties and thermal stability of filled materials. It is frequently used as filler for improvement of most polymer properties. Polymer/graphite composites have long been used in structural, aerospace and sporting goods applications. The importance of thermal conductivity in polymer composites is needed for acceptable levels of thermal conductance in circuit boards, heat exchangers, appliances and machinery. Graphite halogen‐free flame‐retardant materials can be used in the manufacturer of electric engineering materials and electronics, such as the wires and cables. In this review, we focus on graphite and its various modifications on the flammability, thermal conductivity and thermal stability of the composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E1487–E1499, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers