TAGS: Nanotechnologies
Nanocomposites are growing steadily and expected to evolve further. They are currently being used in a number of fields and new applications are being continuously developed.
The overall structure of Nanocomposites includes the matrix polymer and nanofiller as well as possible additives, like dispersing agents.
Matrix Polymer is the main component in the mixture and is the plastic whose properties are being modified by the nanofiller.
Nanofiller is the reinforcing material that changes the properties of the matrix polymer. At least one dimension is on the nanometer size scale.
A nanofiller, when added to a material, improves properties such as mechanical strength, toughness and electrical or thermal conductivity. This has convinced researchers and companies to consider using the material in several fields.
Before we indulge further into the topic, let's quickly take a look at different types of Nanofillers:
Name |
Properties |
Organoclay |
Chemically modified naturally occurring clay material, primarily used in water and waste treatment applications |
Carbon Nanotubes |
Structures of carbon in a cylindrical nanostructure, they possess very high strength and stiffness |
Graphene |
A 2-Dimensional Crystalline Structure of Carbon, it is known to be flexible and conductive |
Other Nanofillers Reported in Literature-
Silica (SiO2), Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3), Zinc Oxide (ZnO) and Aluminum Oxide (Al2O3)
Key Applications of Nanocomposites in Various Sectors
Nanocomposites are already contributing in the major industries, particularly in
automotive, packaging and electronics industries! Other important usages include dental uses, electronic applications, paints and barrier coatings.
Being a part of almost all the sectors, it will be appropriate to say that applications of nanocomposite are ever expanding!
Let’s quickly have a look at some of the crucial uses:
Aerospace
Nanocomposite serves as an
advanced solution in aircraft construction. Some application areas include the following:
- For introducing entirely new properties like accelerated biodegradation, fire resistance…
- Strengthening element in frames (high strength of filler)
- For yielding an optimum multi - functional material
Automotive Developments
Bumpers (Toyota), engine components and rubber compounds are the most common applications.
Nanocomposites have been in the automobile industry for a long time now because they can impart important properties like:
- Enhanced modulus and dimensional stability
- Higher HDT
- Improved scratch resistance
- Toughness
Biomedical
Major medical applications include:
- Artificial Joints with Carbon Nanotubes
- Drug delivery systems
- Biological sensors
- Tissue engineering
- Bone replacement/repair
Interaction between matrix polymer and filler is critical to use!
Energy
Nanocomposites have a great scope in energy sector. Here are main application areas:
- Dielectric Capacitors
- Dielectric constant
- Breakdown
- Solar cells (energy storage)
- Nanosensors (small size)
- Electromagnetic absorption (electrical properties)
Rubber Compounds
Various rubber polymers used are
Nitrile, Chloroprene and Styrene – based.
The observed property enhancement depends on several factors:
- Processing method
- Dispersion
- Concentration of Nanofiller
Nanocomposites Professionals: Stay Alert!
Upgrade your nanocomposites for today’s high value markets by getting expert tips to boost their performance
(strength, HDT, moisture resistance, electrical conductivity…). Join the course:
Developing Nanocomposites for Today’s Markets: Do’s & Don’ts on August 28, 2018.