When compounded into a polymer film or solid part, xGnP® graphene nanoplatelets significantly reduce the Permeability or Diffusion Coefficients of the matrix material. This reduction in permeability is a function of the platelet morphology of xGnP® nanoplatelets, since it increases the Tortuosity Factor of a permeant – literally making a gaseous molecule’s escape path through the composite material a "long and winding road." The high aspect ratio of the platelets – which are far wider than they are thick – makes them effective at low loading levels, which helps reduce cost and impact on other properties.
Laboratory tests with nylon and other thermoplastic resins show several orders-of-magnitude improvements in permeability when compounded with xGnP® nanoplatelets. Permeability is significantly influenced by the particle size of the additive, so we make xGnP® nanoplatelets available in sizes ranging up 25 μm in diameter. In general, larger diameter particles provide greater reductions in permeability. In laboratory tests, 15-μm particles compare favorably with most nanoclays and clearly outperform other carbon-based materials.
Significantly lowered permeability from xGnP® brand nanoplatelets can improve applications ranging from industrial to retail:
- Composite linings for fuel tanks and lines
- Bottles and other containers made from plastics
- Chemical storage containers
- Packaging laminates and films
- Elastomeric gaskets and seals
Please contact us for further information.
Note: the properties and measurements provided on this page are shown for comparison purposes only. The actual performance of xGnP® in a composite application will, of course, depend on matrix materials, processing, densities, and dispersion of the materials. In some cases, surface treatments or other functionalization can significantly improve results. For more information or for detailed recommendations regarding your application, please contact our research scientists.