PbO-graphene nanohybrids: A versatile tool for enhancing RLR1110 composites supported by ANN modeling

Razeen LR 1110 (RLR1110) is a solvent-based epoxy resin widely known for its significance in the polymer industry. However, industrial use of RLR1110 is restricted due to the creation of a large number of microvoids during curing, thus weakening its thermal stability and mechanical strength. In order to overcome this drawback, in the current research work we have synthesized lead oxide-decorated graphene (PbO@G) nanohybrids by solution mixing and embedded them in the RLR1110 matrix. Morphology and structural features of graphene (G), lead oxide (PbO), and PbO@G nanohybrids were studied using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy. G-RLR1110, PbO-RLR1110, and PbO@G-RLR1110 nanocomposites were prepared and tested for thermal and mechanical properties. In addition, an artificial neural network (ANN) model was developed to predict the tensile behavior of the nanocomposites with high accuracy, with satisfactory agreement with experimental values. Interestingly, incorporation of 0.2 wt% PbO@G in the RLR1110 matrix showed remarkable improvement in storage modulus and tan delta values, indicating improved viscoelastic and thermal properties. These enhancements are attributed to the uniform dispersion of nanofillers and improved interfacial interaction between the nanofillers and epoxy matrix. Therefore, incorporation of PbO@G nanohybrids is a promising approach to overcome the inherent limitations of RLR1110 and to expand its broader application in other polymer systems.