Polymer composites filled with DNA-functionalized graphene nanoplatelets. Effects of DNA modification on the curing behavior and properties of PDMS-based matrices
In this paper, we report our recent results on the preparation and characterization of biocompatible nanocomposites made of a silicone-based polymer matrix with tunable elasticity (polydimethylsiloxane, PDMS, and its mixtures with hydroxyl-terminated PDMS) and DNA-functionalized graphene nanoplatelets as fillers. The aim is to exploit the biocompatible character and the high flexibility of the PDMS matrix, together with the exceptional mechanical strength, and good thermal and electrical conductivity of the graphene nanofillers (GNP) for applications in biomedical and sensing devices.