Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) Technique for the Development of Nanocomposites Reinforced with 2D Materials

Abstract

The incorporation of two-dimensional (2D) materials into nanocomposites has emerged as a viable strategy for developing advanced nanocomposites. Among the different fabrication procedures available for developing nanocomposites, spark plasma sintering (SPS) has received considerable interest as SPS enables us to sinter at a lower temperature and for a short period of time. In the present study, we have investigated the utilization of the SPS technique for the development of nanocomposites reinforced with 2D materials. The synthesis, processing, and characterization of nanocomposites reinforced with 2D nanomaterials like graphene, molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), and hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) have been investigated in the present study. These nanocomposites are capable of having extraordinary mechanical, electrical and thermal properties. Rapid heating rates, short processing durations, and high-pressure conditions are the major benefits of the SPS technique. These conditions allow for good dispersion and interfacial bonding between the 2D nanofillers and the matrix, resulting in better material properties. Also due to the lower sintering temperature and the short duration of sintering SPS allows us to preserve the structural integrity of the nanofillers inside the matrix of the nanocomposites. In-depth examination of the SPS technique, highlighting its potential for improving the mechanical strength and thermal stability of the 2D material-based nanocomposites will be presented. Additionally, the study also looks into the microstructural evolution and phase transitions that occur during SPS. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), x-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy are among the various techniques used to analyze the morphology, crystal structure, and chemical composition of the nanocomposites. The limitations of the SPS approach and the optimization of 2D material dispersion and interface engineering have also been highlighted. Overall, this study provides an in-depth investigation of the SPS technique's application in the development of nanocomposites reinforced with 2D materials.