Polymer nanocomposites are polymer matrices reinforced with nano-scale fillers. This new class of composite materials has shown improved mechanical and physical properties. The latter include enhanced optical, electrical and dielectric properties. This important book begins by examining the characteristics of the main types of polymer nanocomposites, then reviews their diverse applications. Part one focuses on polymer/nanoparticle composites, their synthesis, optical properties and electrical conductivity. Part two describes the electrical, dielectric and thermal behaviour of polymer/nanoplatelet composites, whilst polymer/nanotube composites are the subject of Part three. The processing and industrial applications of these nanocomposite materials are discussed in Part four, including uses in fuel cells, bioimaging and sensors as well as the manufacture and applications of electrospun polymer nanocomposite fibers, nanostructured transition metal oxides, clay nanofiller/epoxy nanocomposites, hybrid epoxy-silica-rubber nanocomposites and other rubber-based nanocomposites. Polymer nanocomposites: Physical properties and applications is a valuable reference tool for both the research community and industry professionals wanting to learn about the these materials and their applications in such areas as fuel cell, sensor and biomedical technology. Examines the characteristics of the main types of polymer nanocomposites and reviews their diverse applications Comprehensively assesses polymer/nanoparticle composites exploring experimental techniques and data associated with the conductivity and dielectric characterization A specific section on polymer/nanotube composites features electrical and dielectric behaviour of polymer/carbon nanotube composites

This book is focused primarily on polymer nanocomposites, based on the author's research experience as well as open literature. The environmental health and safety aspects of nanomaterials and polymer nanocomposites, risk assessment and safety standards, and fire toxicity of polymer nanocomposites, are studied. In the final chapter, a brief overview of opportunities, trends, and challenges of polymer nanocomposites are included. Throughout the book, the theme is developed that polymer nanocomposites are a whole family of polymeric materials whose properties are capable of being tailored to meet specific applications. This volume serves as a general introduction to students and researchers just entering the field and to scholars from other subfields seeking information.

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

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

Discusses polymer nanocomposites composed of a family of polymeric materials whose properties are capable of being tailored to meet specific applications.

Spectroscopy of Polymer Nanocomposites covers all aspects of the spectroscopic characterization of polymer nanocomposites. More than 25 spectroscopy characterization techniques – almost all used in materials science – are treated in the book, with discussion of their potentialities and limitations. By comparing the techniques with each other and presenting the techniques together with their specific application areas, the book provides scientists and engineers the information needed for solving specific problems and choosing the right technique for analyzing the material structure. From this, the dispersion structure of fillers, property relations and filler-polymer interactions can be determined, and, ultimately, the right materials can be chosen for the right applications. Besides the techniques and structure-property relations, aspects covered include: phase segregation of filler particles, filler agglomeration and deagglomeration, filler dispersion, filler-polymer interactions, surfaces and interfaces. The book also examines recent developments, as well as unresolved issues and new challenges, in the characterization of surfaces and interfaces in polymer nanocomposites. This handpicked selection of topics, and the combined expertise of contributors from industry, academia, government and private research organizations across the globe, make this survey an outstanding reference source for anyone involved in the field of polymer nanocomposites in academia or industry. Provides comprehensive coverage of spectroscopy techniques for analyzing polymer nanocomposites Enables researchers and engineers to choose the right technique and make better materials decisions in research and a range of industries Presents the fundamentals, information on structure-property relations, and all other aspects relevant for understanding spectroscopic analyses of nanoreinforced polymers and their applications

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