Polymer Composites with Functional Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Properties, and Applications reviews the latest research in the area of polymer nanocomposites and functionalized nanoparticles, providing an introduction for those new to the field, and supporting further research and development. The book helps researchers and practitioners better understand the key role of nanoparticle functionalization for improving the compatibility of inorganic metallic nanomaterials with organic polymers, and for the fabrication of nanostructured materials with special properties. A range of nanoparticles, such as carbon nanotubes are covered, along with descriptions of the methods of functionalization to support better compatibility with polymer matrices. The book also discusses the various applications of this technology, including uses in electronics and the medical and energy industries. Summarizes the latest research in functionalized nanoparticles for modification of polymer matrices, providing a valuable platform for further research Includes functionalization of a range of nanoparticles for incorporation into nanocomposites, including carbon nanotubes, graphene, gold and silver, silica and clay Provides detailed coverage of application areas, including energy, electronics, biomedical applications, and end-of-life considerations

Polymer composites are materials in which the matrix polymer is reinforced with organic/inorganic fillers of a definite size and shape, leading to enhanced performance of the resultant composite. These materials find a wide number of applications in such diverse fields as geotextiles, building, electronics, medical, packaging, and automobiles. This first systematic reference on the topic emphasizes the characteristics and dimension of this reinforcement. The authors are leading researchers in the field from academia, government, industry, as well as private research institutions across the globe, and adopt a practical approach here, covering such aspects as the preparation, characterization, properties and theory of polymer composites. The book begins by discussing the state of the art, new challenges, and opportunities of various polymer composite systems. Interfacial characterization of the composites is discussed in detail, as is the macro- and micromechanics of the composites. Structure-property relationships in various composite systems are explained with the help of theoretical models, while processing techniques for various macro- to nanocomposite systems and the influence of processing parameters on the properties of the composite are reviewed in detail. The characterization of microstructure, elastic, viscoelastic, static and dynamic mechanical, thermal, tribological, rheological, optical, electrical and barrier properties are highlighted, as well as their myriad applications. Divided into three volumes: Vol. 1. Macro- and Microcomposites; Vol. 2. Nanocomposites; and Vol. 3. Biocomposites.

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Advances in Functionalized Polymer Nanocomposites: From Synthesis to Applications presents a detailed review on the synthesis, fundamental chemistry, properties, and applications of these high-performance materials. The introductory chapter provides a brief overview of the various types of organic and inorganic nanofillers used for the synthesis of polymer nanocomposites. Emphasis is placed on their fundamental chemistry, processing methods, functionalization and/or surface modification strategies. The dispersion state and their specific interaction with polymer matrices is also discussed in detail, as well as characterization techniques for functionalized nanofillers and functionalized polymer nanocomposites, and their properties, and applications. The book will be a valuable reference source for scientists, engineers, and postgraduate students, working in the field of polymer science and technology, materials science and engineering, composites, and nanocomposites. Covers fabrication, processing, characterization, and properties of various functionalized polymer nanocomposites Explores usage in energy storage systems, biomedical fields, environmental remediation, catalysis, gas sensing, biosensing, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding Provides information on lifecycle assessment and environmental and health impacts of these materials

Volume B forms one volume of a Handbook about Polymer Nanocomposites. Volume B deals with Carbon nanotube based polymer composites. The preparation, architecture, characterisation, properties and application of polymer nanocomposites are discussed within some 25 chapters. Each chapter has been authored by experts in the respective field.

The introduction of nanoparticles into a polymer to form organic-inorganic nanocomposites can greatly enhance the properties of the host polymer. Nanoscale ionic materials, NIMs are new hybrid particles comprised of an inorganic core functionalized with a soft organic shell. Because of the hybrid nature, their properties can be controlled by varying the chemical composition and structure of the core and the canopy. This thesis discusses the synthesis, characterization and bulk and surface properties of a series of new NIMs and NIMs based nanocomposite materials. A new series of NIMs and NIMs based nanocomposites was synthesized. The surface and bulk properties are characterized and discussed in terms of possible polymerparticle interactions by considering a variety of cores (silica and carbon) and a range of polymer matrices (polystyrene, polyethylene glycol, and PDMS-polyurea copolymers). By tailoring the polarity and surface energy between particle-particle and particle-polymer it is possible to control the geometry, size and dispersion of the nanoparticles in the nanocomposites. A simple yet general coating method to plasma treated polymeric substrates is also presented. The method is based on electrostatic interactions between the surface functionalized nanoparticles and the charged substrate and leads to stable and solvent resistant multilayer coatings. The coatings render PP hydrophilic and in the case of PP fabric superhydrophilic. The superhydrophilicity is attributed to the topography and increased roughness of the fabric compared to a planar, smooth substrate. Finally, a series of new PDMS-polyurea segmented copolymers and nanocomposites was synthesized and their settlement and fouling release behavior was evaluated. The extent of microphase separation and the ability of different domains to crystallize affect the surface and bulk properties of the copolymers. By varying the amount of the soft PDMS segment as well as using nanoparticles we were able to develop copolymers and nanocomposites with moduli spanning a range of more than four orders of magnitude. All copolymers and nanocomposites are stronger (in some cases by orders of magnitude) than PDMS. Surface studies using profilometry and AFM show surface nanostructuring due to phase separation with both nano and microscale features. The morphology can be further modified by the presence of fluorinated groups in the copolymer or the presence of nanoparticles in the nanocomposites. Preliminary studies on settlement and removal of sporelings of Ulva show that the critical pressure to remove 50% of the sporelings is at least comparable and in some cases lower compared to a PDMS elastomer. Additionally a series based on mono-, bifunctional PEG segments shows improved settlement behavior of barnacle larvae compared to standard PDMS. These findings are quite significant as the new coatings combine and at times exceed the fouling release performance of PDMS but are much stronger and tougher.

The addition of nanoparticles to polymer composites has led to a new generation of composite materials with enhanced and novel properties. Advances in polymer nanocomposites reviews the main types of polymer nanocomposites and their applications.Part one reviews types of polymer nanocomposites according to fillers. Processing of carbon nanotube-based nanocomposites, layered double hydroxides (LDHs) and cellulose nanoparticles as functional fillers and reinforcement are discussed, alongside calcium carbonate and metal-polymer nanocomposites. Part two focuses on types of polymer nanocomposites according to matrix polymer, with polyolefin-based, (PVC)-based, nylon-based, (PET)-based and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)-based polymer nanocomposites discussed. Soft, gel and biodegradable polymer nanocomposites are also considered. Part three goes on to investigate key applications, including fuel cells, aerospace applications, optical applications, coatings and flame-retardant polymer nanocomposites.With its distinguished editor and international team of expert contributors, Advances in polymer nanocomposites is an essential guide for professionals and academics involved in all aspects of the design, development and application of polymer nanocomposites. Reviews the main types of polymer nanocomposites and their applications Discusses processing of carbon nanotube-based nanocomposites, layered double hydroxides (LDHs) and cellulose nanoparticles as functional fillers and reinforcement Discusses polyolefin-based, (PVC)-based, nylon-based, (PET)-based and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)-based polymer nanocomposites