Highly tough graphene oxide/ cis ‐1,4‐polyisoprene films enabled by ionic liquid‐enhanced chemical Interface interaction

Abstract To better substitute natural rubber latex (NRL) with cis ‐1,4‐polyisoprene latex (IRL), and thus fundamentally solve the problem of allergies induced by NRL products in humans, a novel latex compounding method was devised. This method aimed to enhance the mechanical properties of IRL films by non‐covalently modifying graphene oxide (GO) with ionic liquids (IL), which significantly improved the dispersion of GO in water. The interaction between IL and GO was thoroughly investigated. Subsequently, IL‐GO/IRL composite latexes featuring a fine dispersion of IL‐GO were successfully developed. An extensive investigation into the properties and morphology of the IL‐GO/IRL latex revealed their stability, excellent film‐forming abilities, and superior mechanical characteristics, rendering them ideal for dipping processes. The resulting thickness‐adjustable IL‐GO/IRL composite films exhibited remarkable mechanical properties. Notably, the tensile strength of the 1.5IL‐GO/IRL vulcanized film surpassed that of GO/IRL films by 2.75 times and NRL films by 10.49%. Additionally, the crosslinking density of the IL‐GO/IRL vulcanized films was improved. Further analysis of the interaction between IL‐GO and polyisoprene macromolecules was also conducted. The composite films are poised to find applications in high‐end medical and artificial intelligence fields. Highlights Mechanical performance of IRL was enhanced by introducing IL‐GO. Fine GO dispersed composite latexes were ideal for the dipping process. Composite films boast superior mechanical properties surpassing NRL films. Resulting composite film was thickness‐adjustable and ultra‐thin. CC bonds in IL and IR formed covalent linkages, boosting GO‐IR chain interaction.