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Advanced Polymers and Composites for Multifunctional Applications
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Advanced Polymers and Composites for Multifunctional Applications

A special issue of Materials (ISSN 1996-1944). This special issue belongs to the section "Polymeric Materials".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 September 2025 | Viewed by 7493

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Kinga Pielichowska

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Guest Editor
Department of Biomaterials and Composites, Faculty of Materials Science and Ceramics, AGH University of Krakow, Al. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Krakow, Poland
Interests: polymers; (nano)composites; polysaccharides; biomaterials; phase change materials; thermal analysis; materials characterization
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Katarzyna Nowicka

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Biomaterials and Composites, Faculty of Materials Science and Ceramics, AGH University of Krakow, Al. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Krakow, Poland
Interests: polymers; (nano)composites; biomaterials, materials characterization; magnetic nanoparticles
Dr. Piotr Szatkowski

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Biomaterials and Composites, Faculty of Materials Science and Ceramics, AGH University of Krakow, Al. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Krakow, Poland
Interests: polymers; biocomposites; materials characterization
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Advanced polymers and composites are an interesting and rapidly growing class of novel multifunctional materials with desirable properties, intended for specialized applications. They are considered promising materials for multifunctional applications, including biomedical,  aerospace, automotive, electronics, energy, construction, and buildings, as well as in the chemical industry.

The structure and properties of advanced polymers and their composites strongly depend not only on the type of polymer matrix; its average molar mass, dispersity, and structure; and the architecture of the polymer chains, but also on the filler’s type and content, shape, size, and compatibility with the polymer matrix. Both fillers and nanofillers can strongly influence thermal and mechanical properties, flame retardancy, and thermal and electrical conductivity. However, further functionalization and modifications can provide new properties and allow for the development of multifunctional systems for advanced applications.

This Special Issue of Materials will attempt to cover the most recent progress in advanced and high-performance multifunctional polymer (nano)composites, including their preparation, compatibilization, and processing, along with the properties and methods of their characterization. Papers on the applications of advanced multifunctional polymer (nano)composites, ranging from automotive and buildings, mechanical engineering, and energy to electronics and biomedicine, are welcome. We hope that this Special Issue will present perspectives on advanced multifunctional polymer systems.

In this Special Issue, full research papers and reviews will be published.

Prof. Dr. Kinga Pielichowska
Dr. Katarzyna Nowicka
Dr. Piotr Szatkowski
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Materials is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • polymer composites
  • nanocomposites
  • advanced polymers
  • high-performance polymers
  • multifunctional systems
  • properties and structure of functional polymer composites
  • degradation and stability of polymer composites
  • functional polymer composites for the environment

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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24 pages, 5345 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Strength of Polyamide Used for High Pressure Transmission of Hydrogen on the Example of Reinforced Plastic Hoses
by Natalia Dawicka, Beata Kurc, Xymena Gross, Jakub Tomasz, Katarzyna Siwińska-Ciesielczyk and Agnieszka Kołodziejczak-Radzimska
Materials 2025, 18(7), 1402; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18071402 - 21 Mar 2025
Viewed by 256
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the strength of polyamide utilized in high pressure hydrogen transmission, exemplified by reinforced plastic hoses. The research encompasses a comprehensive investigation of materials employed in hydrogen infrastructure, focusing on their barrier and mechanical properties. It [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the strength of polyamide utilized in high pressure hydrogen transmission, exemplified by reinforced plastic hoses. The research encompasses a comprehensive investigation of materials employed in hydrogen infrastructure, focusing on their barrier and mechanical properties. It addresses challenges associated with hydrogen storage and transport, presenting various types of tanks and hoses commonly used in the industry and detailing the materials used in their construction, such as metals and polymers. Two materials were analyzed in the study; one new material and one material exposed to hydrogen. Key mechanisms and factors affecting gas permeation in materials are discussed, including an analysis of parameters such as fractional free volume (FFV), solubility coefficient (S), diffusion coefficient, and permeability coefficient. Methods for evaluating material permeation were outlined, as they are essential for assessing suitability in hydrogen infrastructure. Experimental analyses included Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR), differential thermal analysis (DTA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). These techniques provided detailed insights into the structure and properties of polyamide, allowing for an assessment of its performance under high pressure hydrogen conditions. Pressure was identified as a critical factor influencing both the material’s mechanical strength and its hydrogen transport capability, as it affects the quantity of adsorbed particles. According to the DTA investigation, the polyamide demonstrates minimal mass loss at lower temperatures, indicating a low risk of material degradation. However, its performance declines significantly at higher temperatures (above 350 °C). Up to 250 °C, the material shows no notable decomposition occurred, suggesting its suitability for certain applications. The presence of functional groups was found to play a significant role in gas permeation, highlighting the importance of detailed physicochemical analysis. XRD studies revealed that hydrogen exposure did not significantly alter the internal structure of polyamide. These findings suggest that the structure of polyamide is well-suited for operation under specific conditions, making it a promising candidate for use in hydrogen infrastructure. However, the study also highlights areas where further research and optimization are needed. Overall, this work provides valuable insights into the properties of polyamide and its potential applications in hydrogen systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers and Composites for Multifunctional Applications)
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17 pages, 4901 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Conformity of Mycelium Biocomposites for Ecological Insulation Solutions
by Ilze Irbe, Mikelis Kirpluks, Mikus Kampuss, Laura Andze, Ulla Milbreta and Inese Filipova
Materials 2024, 17(24), 6111; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17246111 - 13 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 791
Abstract
In this study, different combinations of mycelium biocomposites (MBs) were developed using primary substrates sourced from the local agricultural, wood processing, and paper industries. The physicomechanical properties, thermal conductivity, and fire behavior were evaluated. The highest bending strength was achieved in composites containing [...] Read more.
In this study, different combinations of mycelium biocomposites (MBs) were developed using primary substrates sourced from the local agricultural, wood processing, and paper industries. The physicomechanical properties, thermal conductivity, and fire behavior were evaluated. The highest bending strength was achieved in composites containing waste fibers and birch sanding dust, with a strength competitive with that of synthetic polymers like EPS and XPS, as well as some commercial building materials. The lowest thermal conductivity was observed in hemp-based MB, with a lambda coefficient of 40 m·W·m−1·K−1, making these composites competitive with non-mycelium insulation materials, including synthetic polymers such as EPS and XPS. Additionally, MB exhibited superior fire resistance compared to various synthetic foams and composite materials. They showed lower peak heat release rates (134–243 k·W·m−2) and total smoke release (7–281 m2·m−2) than synthetic polymers, and lower total heat release (6–62 k·W·m−2) compared to certain wood composites. Overall, the mechanical and thermal properties, along with the fire performance of MB, support their potential as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based and traditional composite materials in the building industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers and Composites for Multifunctional Applications)
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14 pages, 3375 KiB  
Article
Impact of Different Post-Curing Temperatures on Mechanical and Physical Properties of Waste-Modified Polymer Composites
by Bernardeta Dębska, Bruna Silva Almada and Guilherme Jorge Brigolini Silva
Materials 2024, 17(21), 5301; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17215301 - 31 Oct 2024
Viewed by 956
Abstract
One of the key trends affecting the future of the construction industry is the issue of ecology; therefore, current activities in construction aim to reduce the use of raw materials, which is made possible by including recycled materials in composites, among other methods. [...] Read more.
One of the key trends affecting the future of the construction industry is the issue of ecology; therefore, current activities in construction aim to reduce the use of raw materials, which is made possible by including recycled materials in composites, among other methods. This article describes the results of tests conducted using four types of epoxy composites, i.e., composites modified with waste rubber (WR), composites modified with waste polyethylene (PE) agglomerate, glycolysate obtained using polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste, and control unmodified mortars (CUM). Selected properties of the mortars were monitored during their maturation under laboratory conditions, as well as after post-curing at elevated temperatures in the range of 60 °C–180 °C. With the increase in the reheating temperature, an increase in the flexural strength of all types of mortars was noted, with the highest more than twofold stronger than the unmodified composites. The compressive strength increased up to a temperature of 140 °C, and then decreased slightly. The highest value of 139.8 MPa was obtained using PET mortars. Post-curing also led to a slight loss of mass of all samples in the range of 0 to 0.06%. Statistical methods were employed, which made it possible to determine the post-curing temperature and composite composition for which the determined properties are simultaneously the most beneficial, especially for the prefabricated elements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers and Composites for Multifunctional Applications)
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13 pages, 3206 KiB  
Article
Electro-Spun P(VDF-HFP)/Silica Composite Gel Electrolytes for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries
by Wen Huang, Caiyuan Liu, Xin Fang, Hui Peng, Yonggang Yang and Yi Li
Materials 2024, 17(20), 5083; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17205083 - 18 Oct 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 922
Abstract
This work presents a facile way to fabricate a polymer/ceramics composite gel electrolyte to improve the overall properties of lithium-ion batteries. Lithium salt-grafted silica was synthesized and mixed with P(VDF-HFP) to produce a nanofiber film by the electrostatic spinning method. After coating a [...] Read more.
This work presents a facile way to fabricate a polymer/ceramics composite gel electrolyte to improve the overall properties of lithium-ion batteries. Lithium salt-grafted silica was synthesized and mixed with P(VDF-HFP) to produce a nanofiber film by the electrostatic spinning method. After coating a layer of SiO2 onto the surface of nanofibers through a sol-gel method, a composite nanofiber film was obtained. It was then immersed in plasticizer until saturation to make a composite gel electrolyte film. Electrochemical test results showed that the obtained gel electrolyte film shows high thermal stability (~450 °C), high ionic conductivity of 1.3 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 25 °C and a lithium-ion transference number of 0.58, and superior cycling stability, providing a new direction for manufacturing secondary batteries with higher safety and performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers and Composites for Multifunctional Applications)
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Review

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24 pages, 1718 KiB  
Review
Manufacturing of Sustainable Composite Materials: The Challenge of Flax Fiber and Polypropylene
by Gianluca Parodo, Luca Sorrentino, Sandro Turchetta and Giuseppe Moffa
Materials 2024, 17(19), 4768; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17194768 - 28 Sep 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2541
Abstract
The widespread use of synthetic composite materials has raised environmental concerns due to their non-biodegradability and energy-intensive production. This paper explores the potential of natural composites, specifically flax–polypropylene, as a sustainable alternative to traditional composites for semi-structural applications. In fact, the mechanical properties [...] Read more.
The widespread use of synthetic composite materials has raised environmental concerns due to their non-biodegradability and energy-intensive production. This paper explores the potential of natural composites, specifically flax–polypropylene, as a sustainable alternative to traditional composites for semi-structural applications. In fact, the mechanical properties of flax–polypropylene composites are similar to synthetic ones (such as those made with E-glass fibers). However, processing challenges related to fiber–matrix interaction and material degradation necessitate suited process parameters for this sustainable type of material. For this reason, this review highlights the importance of optimizing existing manufacturing processes, such as hot press molding, to better accommodate the specific characteristics of polypropylene–flax composites. By refining the parameters and techniques involved in hot press molding, researchers should overcome current limitations and fully capitalize on its potential to produce composite materials of optimal quality. Therefore, a comprehensive literature assessment was conducted to analyze the properties and processing challenges of flax–polypropylene composites. Key process parameters affecting the material’s performance are identified and discussed. By optimizing process parameters for flax–polypropylene composites, it is possible to develop a sustainable and high-performance material with a reduced environmental footprint. Further research is needed to scale up production and explore different applications for this sustainable composite material. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers and Composites for Multifunctional Applications)
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19 pages, 2344 KiB  
Review
Progress on Material Design and Device Fabrication via Coupling Photothermal Effect with Thermoelectric Effect
by Shuang Liu, Bingchen Huo and Cun-Yue Guo
Materials 2024, 17(14), 3524; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143524 - 16 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1557
Abstract
Recovery and utilization of low-grade thermal energy is a topic of universal importance in today’s society. Photothermal conversion materials can convert light energy into heat energy, which can now be used in cancer treatment, seawater purification, etc., while thermoelectric materials can convert heat [...] Read more.
Recovery and utilization of low-grade thermal energy is a topic of universal importance in today’s society. Photothermal conversion materials can convert light energy into heat energy, which can now be used in cancer treatment, seawater purification, etc., while thermoelectric materials can convert heat energy into electricity, which can now be used in flexible electronics, localized cooling, and sensors. Photothermoelectrics based on the photothermal effect and the Seebeck effect provide suitable solutions for the development of clean energy and energy harvesting. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of recent developments in photothermal, thermoelectric, and, most importantly, photothermal–thermoelectric coupling materials. First, the research progress and applications of photothermal and thermoelectric materials are introduced, respectively. After that, the classification of different application areas of materials coupling photothermal effect with thermoelectric effect, such as sensors, thermoelectric batteries, wearable devices, and multi-effect devices, is reviewed. Meanwhile, the potential applications and challenges to be overcome for future development are presented, which are of great reference value in waste heat recovery as well as solar energy resource utilization and are of great significance for the sustainable development of society. Finally, the challenges of photothermoelectric materials as well as their future development are summarized. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers and Composites for Multifunctional Applications)
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