Enhancing antistatic property of epoxy resin coatings via formation of conductive networks with fibrous polyaniline/reduced graphene oxide

Abstract

A highly antistatic coating was fabricated by intercalating conducting polyaniline (PANI) into graphene oxide (GO) layers, which were then incorporated into epoxy resin to enhance its antistatic properties. PANI nanofibers were produced via in situ polymerization within the GO interlayers, which facilitated the separation of GO layers, improved the dispersion of functionalized GO in the epoxy resin matrix, and resulted in enhanced antistatic behavior. Further, high-shear mixing prevented the formation of large particles and agglomerates of PANI, promoting the polymerization of aniline into fibrous structures. The results of FT-IR, SEM and TEM indicate that fibrous PANI was successfully grafted onto the rGO backbone, forming an interconnected conductive network that enhances electron mobility and charge dissipation within the resin. The appropriate antistatic and mechanical properties were realized by adjusting the concentrations of PANI and rGO, and the effectiveness and durability of the composite were assessed. When the PANI/rGO content was 7 wt%, the composite material maintained a surface resistivity of $6.59\times 10^6\Omega$ under standard testing conditions, as measured using a three-point probe method immediately after curing. After prolonged use, the resistivity increased and eventually stabilized at approximately $2.01\times 10^7\Omega$, conforming to industry standards. This study lays the foundation for future exploration into the long-term stability and industrial scalability of high-performance antistatic composites.