This book provides an overview of polymer nanocomposites and hybrid materials with polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS). Among inorganic nanoparticles, functionalized POSS are unique nano-building blocks that can be used to create a wide variety of hybrid and composite materials, where precise control of nanostructures and properties is required. This book describes the influence of incorporation of POSS moieties into (organic) polymer matrices on the mechanical, thermal and flammability behavior of composites and hybrid organic-inorganic materials. Importantly, POSS-containing materials can be bio-functionalized by linking e.g. peptides and growth factors through appropriate surface modification in order to enhance the haemo-compatibility of cardiovascular devices made of these materials. This volume includes descriptions of synthesis routes of POSS and POSS-containing polymeric materials (e.g. based on polyolefines, epoxy resins and polyurethanes), presentation of POSS’ role as flame retardants and as biocompatible linker, as well as the depiction of decomposition and ageing processes.

Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane (POSS) Polymer Nanocomposites: From Synthesis to Applications offers extensive coverage of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes and their nanocomposites, including their synthesis, characterization, interfacial interactions and advanced applications. Sections introduce essentials, information on their preparation and discussions on polymeric materials, including elastomers, thermoplastics, thermosetting polymers, polymer blends and IPNs. Further sections cover the latest analysis techniques, examine the properties of POSS-polymer nanocomposites, and discuss key application areas, such as biological, energy, defense, and space. Finally, issues surrounding industry implementation and lifecycle are explored. This is a valuable reference for researchers, scientists and advanced students in the areas of polymer composites and nanocomposites, polymer chemistry, polymer physics, polymer science, and materials science and engineering. In an industrial setting, this book will be of great interest to scientists, R&D professionals, and engineers across industries and disciplines. Covers all aspects of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) and their nanocomposites, including synthesis and characterization techniques, properties, analysis, applications and trends Targets POSS nanocomposites, describing synthesis, characterization and the selection of POSS filler types according to polymeric material Explains the preparation and utilization of POSS polymer nanocomposites for cutting-edge applications, including biological, energy, and defense field applications

The combination of functional polymers with inorganic nanostructured compounds has become a major area of research and technological development owing to the remarkable properties and multifunctionalities deriving from their nano and hybrid structures. In this context, polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSSs) have increasing importance and a dominant position with respect to the reinforcement of polymeric materials. Although POSSs were first described in 1946 by Scott, these materials, however, have not immediately been successful if we consider that, starting from 1946 and up to 1995, we find in the literature 85 manuscripts regarding POSSs; which means that less than two papers per year were published over 50 years. Since 1995, we observe an exponential growth of scientific manuscripts concerning POSSs. It is changing from an annual average of 20 manuscripts for the period 1995–2000 to an annual average of about 400 manuscripts, with an increase of 2800%. The introduction of POSSs inorganic nanostructures into polymers gives rise to polymer nanostructured materials (PNMs) with interesting mechanical and physical properties, thus representing a radical alternative to the traditional filled polymers or polymer compositions.

Combines chemistry and material science in order to provide a complete overview of the design, synthesis, and applications of organo-silica This book offers comprehensive and systematic coverage of the latest developments in functional hybrid silicon copolymers, their applications, and how they were developed in relation to previous works in the preparation of various functional groups terminated silicone materials. Silicon Containing Hybrid Copolymers begins with a chapter that introduces readers to organo-silicon materials. It then presents a chapter on reactive functionally terminated polyorganosiloxanes, and contains a section on the methods and advances of functionalized polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) and copolymers. Nanostructured self-assemblies from silicon containing hybrid copolymers are discussed?as are superhydrophobic materials derived from hybrid silicon. Other chapters examine silicone copolymers for healthcare and personal care applications; construction of organic optoelectronic materials by using polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS); and 3D printing silicone materials and devices. The book also includes an overview of material toughening and fire retardancy in regards to hybrid POSS nanocomposites. This title: -Focuses on design and synthesis strategies, providing a valuable resource for researchers in academia and industry -Presents recent applications, with emphasis on the underlying strategies and the influence from previous designs, in fields such as healthcare and consumer care -Combines synthetic pathways with design specific considerations to provide the reader with greater control over the design process Silicon Containing Hybrid Copolymers is an ideal book for materials scientists, polymer chemists, and bioinorganic chemists.

Polymer Hybrid Materials and Composites: Fundamentals and Applications presents an introduction to the principles behind polymeric hybrid materials, providing both theoretical and practical information on the synthesis and application of these materials. It documents the latest innovations, ranging from materials development and characterization of properties, to applications. Sections cover the route from laboratory to industry, providing practical, actionable guidance to assist the scaling up process for applications in areas including energy technology, solar cells, water purification, medical devices, optical and electrical devices, and more. It is an essential introduction to the emerging technologies that are made possible by these advanced materials. Documents the latest innovations in the technology, thus enabling new applications Provides significant and detailed information on the engineering of hybrid materials for a wide range of areas, including energy, medical, and electronics, among others

This book covers the latest advances in polymer-inorganic nanocomposites, with particular focus on high-added-value applications in fields including electronics, optics, magnetism and biotechnology. The unique focus of this book is on electronic, optical, magnetic and biomedical applications of hybrid nanocomposites. Coverage includes: Synthesis methods and issues and production scale-up; Characterization methods; Electronic applications; Optical applications and Photonics; Magnetic applications; and Biomedical applications. The book offers readers a solid grasp of the state of the art, and of current challenges in non-traditional applications of hybrid nanocomposites.