This highlights ongoing research efforts on different aspects of polymer nanocomposites and explores their potentials to exhibit multi-functional properties. In this context, it addresses both fundamental and advanced concepts, while delineating the parameters and mechanisms responsible for these potentials. Aspects considered include embrittlement/toughness; wear/scratch behaviour; thermal stability and flame retardancy; barrier, electrical and thermal conductivity; and optical and magnetic properties. Further, the book was written as a coherent unit rather than a collection of chapters on different topics. As such, the results, analyses and discussions presented herein provide a guide for the development of a new class of multi-functional nanocomposites. Offering an invaluable resource for materials researchers and postgraduate students in the polymer composites field, they will also greatly benefit materials

Polymer Nanocomposite-Based Smart Materials: From Synthesis to Application provides a broad, comprehensive review on all major categories of smart materials and their preparation routes. The main application fields and properties for these diverse types of smart polymer-based composite and nanocomposite materials are also discussed. Chapters on modeling methods and simulation look at the physical or chemical change response that is introduced by the effect of changing environmental conditions such as pH, temperature, mechanical force and light. Written by scholars and experts from around the globe, the book covers key aspects, such as synthesis, processing and applications of polymer and nanocomposite-based smart materials. - Features a board range of different polymer nanocomposites-based smart materials - Contains coverage of synthesis applications as well as experimental, modeling and theoretical results - Includes comprehensive coverage on preparation and testing methods

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

Clay–Polymer Nanocomposites is a complete summary of the existing knowledge on this topic, from the basic concepts of synthesis and design to their applications in timely topics such as high-performance composites, environment, and energy issues. This book covers many aspects of synthesis such as in- situ polymerization within the interlamellar spacing of the clays or by reaction of pristine or pre-modified clays with reactive polymers and prepolymers. Indeed, nanocomposites can be prepared at industrial scale by melt mixing. Regardless the synthesis method, much is said in this book about the importance of theclay pre-modification step, which is demonstrated to be effective, on many occasions, in obtaining exfoliated nanocomposites. Clay–Polymer Nanocomposites reports the background to numerous characterization methods including solid state NMR, neutron scattering, diffraction and vibrational techniques as well as surface analytical methods, namely XPS, inverse gas chromatography and nitrogen adsorption to probe surface composition, wetting and textural/structural properties. Although not described in dedicated chapters, numerous X-ray diffraction patterns of clay–polymer nanocomposites and reference materials are displayed to account for the effects of intercalation and exfoliations of layered aluminosilicates. Finally, multiscale molecular simulation protocols are presenting for predicting morphologies and properties of nanostructured polymer systems with industrial relevance. As far as applications are concerned, Clay–Polymer Nanocomposites examines structural composites such as clay–epoxy and clay–biopolymers, the use of clay–polymer nanocomposites as reactive nanocomposite fillers, catalytic clay-(conductive) polymers and similar nanocomposites for the uptake of hazardous compounds or for controlled drug release, antibacterial applications, energy storage, and more. - The most comprehensive coverage of the state of the art in clay–polymer nanocomposites, from synthesis and design to opportunities and applications - Covers the various methods of characterization of clay–polymer nanocomposites - including spectroscopy, thermal analyses, and X-ray diffraction - Includes a discussion of a range of application areas, including biomedicine, energy storage, biofouling resistance, and more

Polymer Nanocomposites Containing Graphene: Preparation, Properties and Applications provides detailed up-to-date information on the characterization, synthesis, processing, properties and application of these materials. Key topics that are covered in the book include: the methods of synthesis and preparation of graphene as well as different processes and methods of functionalization and modification of graphene for improving composite properties. The preparation techniques focus on which method is advantageous for getting improvements in properties along with their drawbacks. The structure and property relationships are also discussed in detail. The issues related to graphene dispersion in polymer matrices is also addressed as well as the use of graphene as reinforcement in thermoset resins. The different properties of the composites like mechanical, electrical, dielectric, thermal, rheological, morphology, spectroscopy, electronic, optical, and toxicity are reviewed from the geometrical and functional point of view. Applications cover electrical and electronic fields, flame and fire retardancy, structural, sensing and catalysis, membrane, in fuel cell and solar energy, hydrogen production, aerospace engineering, packaging, and biomedical/bioengineering fields. Up-to-date patents on graphene-polymer nanocomposites are also covered. Those working in graphene-based materials will benefit from the detailed knowledge presented in this book on graphene synthesis, composite preparation methods, and the related problems associated with them. The book will enable researchers to select the appropriate composite as per their respective field of application. Presents novel approaches for the preparation of graphene, its modification and nanocomposites with enhanced properties for state-of-the-art applications Special attention is given to how graphene is synthesized through different routes, their functionality, dispersion related matters and structural aspects controlling the composite properties for various applications All synthesis methodology and functionalization procedure for graphene is discussed

Smart Polymer Nanocomposites: Biomedical and Environmental Applications presents the latest information on smart polymers and their promising application in various fields, including their role in delivery systems for drugs, tissue engineering scaffolds, cell culture sports, bioseparation, and sensors or actuator systems. - Features detailed information on the preparation, characterization and applications of smart functional polymer composites - Covers a broad range of applications in both the biomedical and environmental engineering fields - Chapters are written by authors with diverse background expertise from the faculties of chemistry, engineering and the manufacturing industry