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2016 | Book

Polymer Nanocomposites

Towards Multi-Functionality

Authors: Aravind Dasari, Zhong-Zhen Yu, Yiu-Wing Mai

Publisher: Springer London

Book Series : Engineering Materials and Processes

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About this book

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

Table of Contents

Frontmatter
Chapter 1. Introduction: Toward Multi-functionality
Abstract
In this monograph, basics and advanced knowledge of different facets of polymer nanocomposites will be reviewed. This understanding will take us a step closer towards achieving truely multi-functional polymer nanocomposites. This monograph also highlights our continuous and coherent research efforts over many years on these materials.
Aravind Dasari, Zhong-Zhen Yu, Yiu-Wing Mai
Chapter 2. Nanoparticles
Abstract
In this chapter, we will be reviewing the characteristics of some of the nanoparticles that are extensively used in different polymer matrices. The emphasis is on those aspects of nanoparticles that separate them from their micro- or macro-counterparts; for example, physicochemical mechanisms occurring at the surface of an inorganic nanoparticles.
Aravind Dasari, Zhong-Zhen Yu, Yiu-Wing Mai
Chapter 3. Processing
Abstract
In this chapter, we reviewed the choice of nanoparticles for a given polymer matrix based on the properties that are required, volume fraction, and functionalization strategies. These concepts will be considered for discussion followed by processing methodologies of nanoparticles.
Aravind Dasari, Zhong-Zhen Yu, Yiu-Wing Mai
Chapter 4. Microstructural Characterization
Abstract
An accurate quantitative analysis of the microstructure including immiscible polymer phases (if any) and dispersion/distribution of nanoparticles in the matrix is essential to understand the relation between processing and ultimate properties of nanocomposites. Here, we have reviewed the problems associated with proper microstructural characterization of nanocomposites and their influence on precisely concluding the effect on different properties.
Aravind Dasari, Zhong-Zhen Yu, Yiu-Wing Mai
Chapter 5. Interfaces
Abstract
In Chaps. 3 and 4, the importance of surface modification of nanoparticles and the critical role played by the polymer–particle interface in controlling the dispersion (and distribution) of nanoparticles in polymeric matrices was established. The next important question is, how does the presence of nanoparticles affect the orientation of polymer chains (or interfacial region) in their vicinity and the thickness of this ‘influential interface’? This is the main focus of this chapter.
Aravind Dasari, Zhong-Zhen Yu, Yiu-Wing Mai
Chapter 6. Mechanical Properties
Abstract
Generally, the stiffness of a polymer nanocomposite, even with agglomerated particles within the matrix, shows certain degree of improvement. However, the fracture toughness, in most of the polymer nanocomposites is reduced. The extent of changes in mechanical properties, however, depends on many factors such as the state of dispersion/distribution of nanoparticles, aspect ratio, and spatial orientation. This chapter highlights fundamental and recent major developments in the application of various nanoparticles for tuning the mechanical properties.
Aravind Dasari, Zhong-Zhen Yu, Yiu-Wing Mai
Chapter 7. Thermal Properties
Abstract
Apart from mechanical properties, thermal properties dictate the widespread applications of polymeric materials. In this chapter, we will be reviewing the effect of incorporation of nanoparticles into polymers on their thermal properties, efforts that have been putforth to change how they respond, and the issues that still remain unsolved.
Aravind Dasari, Zhong-Zhen Yu, Yiu-Wing Mai
Chapter 8. Flame Retardancy
Abstract
‘Combustion of polymeric materials’ is an important topic, not just from a scientific viewpoint, but also from a day-to-day living perspective. This chapter highlights the effect of various nanofillers in influencing the combustion properties of different polymers, compares their performance with traditional systems, and provides insights into combustion mechanisms.
Aravind Dasari, Zhong-Zhen Yu, Yiu-Wing Mai
Chapter 9. Wear/Scratch Damage
Abstract
In 2009 and 2013, we gave comprehensive reviews on the fundamentals and advances that have been made on tribological aspects of polymer nanocomposites (Dasari et al. in Mater Sci Rep 63:31–80 and Dasari et al. in Tribology of Polymeric Nanocomposites, Butterworth-Heinemann, Elsevier, Croydon, pp 551–570). So, to avoid duplications, here, we focus only on the necessary fundamentals to explain the recent progress on the topic.
Aravind Dasari, Zhong-Zhen Yu, Yiu-Wing Mai
Chapter 10. Functional Properties
Abstract
In earlier chapters, the potential (and associated issues) of nanoparticles in influencing mechanical and thermal properties of polymers is discussed. To further exploit their functionality and achieve combinatorial properties, ‘tailoring’ or ‘tuning’ holds the key. In this chapter, some of the important functional properties of these materials will be briefly reviewed in order to understand the advantages and disadvantages of considering multi-functionality.
Aravind Dasari, Zhong-Zhen Yu, Yiu-Wing Mai
Chapter 11. Ecological Issues
Abstract
The persistence of petrochemical based polymeric materials in the environment after their disposal is linked to a range of issues. The ‘Great Pacific Garbage Patch’ or the Citarum river (Indonesia), and their direct effect on the marine life/seabirds (migration, reproduction and offspring survival rate) or the indirect effect on humans are a few chapters that necessitate the surge for efficient waste management. In this chapter, we highlight a few of these aspects.
Aravind Dasari, Zhong-Zhen Yu, Yiu-Wing Mai
Chapter 12. Applications and Outlook
Abstract
So far, in the previous chapters, we have only shown the potential of polymer nanocomposites to exhibit different functionalities. Herein, we will briefly review some examples of multi-functional polymer-based nanocomposites, which have been reported in the literature along with some commercial applications in different sectors.
Aravind Dasari, Zhong-Zhen Yu, Yiu-Wing Mai
Backmatter
Metadata
Title
Polymer Nanocomposites
Authors
Aravind Dasari
Zhong-Zhen Yu
Yiu-Wing Mai
Copyright Year
2016
Publisher
Springer London
Electronic ISBN
978-1-4471-6809-6
Print ISBN
978-1-4471-6807-2
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-6809-6

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