ABSTRACT
Polymers are used in innumerable applications and „elds. However, it is common to modify the properties or upgrade the performance of polymer systems to satisfy speci„c processing or application requirements. Thus, additives are commonly used to modify polymer properties or upgrade the performance of polymer systems. The term “additive” is commonly used to identify a minor component of the polymer formulation, which modi„es the properties of the polymer (e.g., antioxidants, plasticizers, ¥ame retardants, processing aids, other polymers, colorants, UV absorbers, and extenders). On the other hand, a “„ller” is a solid material or additive added to a polymer system to modify its mechanical, optical, electrical, thermal, barrier, or
CONTENTS
10.1 Introduction ................................................................................................353 10.2 Polymer Nanocomposites Based on Different Nano„llers .................. 356
10.2.1 Metallic Nanoparticles .................................................................. 356 10.2.2 Nanoparticles Based on Metal Oxides and Derivatives ...........360 10.2.3 Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane ....................................... 362 10.2.4 Silicates ............................................................................................363 10.2.5 Biosource Nanoparticles ...............................................................366 10.2.6 Carbon Nanotubes ......................................................................... 367 10.2.7 Graphene ......................................................................................... 372
10.2.7.1 Physical and Chemical Characteristics ........................ 372 10.2.7.2 Nanocomposite Characterization ................................. 376 10.2.7.3 Factors In¥uencing Performance .................................. 378 10.2.7.4 Nanocomposite Preparation Methods ......................... 379 10.2.7.5 Property Enhancements with Graphene ..................... 379
10.3 Challenges in the Preparation of Polymer Nanocomposites ...............384 References ............................................................................................................. 387
¥ammability properties of the bulk material (Work et al. 2004). Usually, „llers are used in larger proportions than additives. In some cases, the low cost of some additives is a major consideration for incorporating them in the formulation. Also, „llers’ contribution to the properties of the system is mainly due to physical factors, while chemical factors play an important part in the role of additives. Fillers intended to improve the mechanical properties are known as “reinforcement” or “reinforcing „llers.”
