Dynamic elastic modulus and hardness mapping of reduced graphene oxide-hydroxyapatite nanocomposites using Kernel density estimation method

Abstract

Introduction: Given that the biomaterials used in the body are directly related to human health, precision in such designs is very important.<br /> Objective: In this study, the effect of changing the mechanical properties of reduced graphene oxide-hydroxyapatite nanocomposites by changing the weight percentage of reduced graphene oxide was investigated.<br /> Material and Methods: rGO-HA powders were first synthesized by argon gas injected hydrothermal method. After characterization of the powders by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis, consolidating was performed by spark plasma sintering (SPS) method on these powders. Sintered samples were subjected to a Vickers indentation technique for mechanical evaluation and analyzed by Kernel density estimation method.<br /> Result: The mechanical properties of synthesized nanocomposites increased with increasing weight percentage of graphene. An increase in graphene percentage made the affected zone smaller. Increasing the graphene sheets percentage partially improved the non-uniformity of hardness and elastic modulus. <br /> Conclusion: The results of this study are expected to be useful for the engineering design of these nanocomposites.