Electrical and Mechanical Performance of Chitosan Films Enhanced by Graphene Oxide and Silver Nanocomposites: Synthesis, Characterization, and Comparative Analysis

This study systematically examined the incorporation of graphene oxide (GO) and silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) into chitosan (CS) films (CS-GO/Ag) to understand their impact on structural, mechanical, and electrical properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the successful integration of GO and Ag NPs into the chitosan matrix. The XRD patterns revealed the presence of GO and silver nanoparticles, with peaks indicating the face-centered cubic structure of silver and partial oxidation. FTIR spectra showed strong interactions between chitosan's amino and hydroxyl groups and the GO and Ag NPs. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) revealed that pure chitosan films had a smooth, uniform surface, whereas the addition of GO introduced surface roughness due to GO sheet agglomeration. The CS-GO/Ag films displayed further roughness, with spherical and cubic Ag NPs enhancing surface texture and potentially improving mechanical and electrical properties. Mechanical testing showed that CS-GO/Ag films had superior performance, exhibiting increased Young's modulus and tensile strength, suggesting that GO and Ag NPs significantly enhanced the film’s stiffness and flexibility. Electrical conductivity measurements indicated that, while pure chitosan films were insulating, the addition of GO improved conductivity. CS-GO/Ag films demonstrated the highest electrical conductivity due to the excellent conductive properties of Ag NPs, which facilitated charge transfer. These findings suggest that CS-GO/Ag composite films hold promise for applications requiring enhanced mechanical and conductive properties.