Nanocomposites of Polymers and Inorganic Particles 2011

Dear Colleagues,

In recent years, polymer-nanoparticle composites have attracted the interest of a number of researchers, mainly because of their hybrid properties derived from different components. In the materials industry, the development of polymer nanocomposites is rapidly expanding as a multidisciplinary research activity and is gaining momentum in mainstream commercial applications. The mixing of polymers, including biopolymers and inorganic matrices, and nanoparticles is opening new routes for engineering flexible composites that exhibit unique electrical, optical, mechanical or thermal characteristics. These novel materials benefit from the synergy between nanoparticles (filler) and polymers (matrix) to tailor nanocomposite materials with new and enhanced properties. So far, commonly used fillers are inorganic particles with spherical or layered materials such as metals (e.g. silver), semiconductors (e.g. CdS) or clay minerals (e.g. montmorillonite). However, nanofibers (e.g nanotubes) also show the promise to be used as fillers. Recent advances reveal new promising pathways to tailor the single components (matrix and filler) and thereby control the macroscopic performance of the composite material. As a result, several sustainable and eco-efficient applications have been identified for these novel materials including automotive and aerospace industry as well as in construction, electrical/electronics applications and food packing.

Prof. Dr. Claudio Nicolini
Dr. Laïla Raki
Guest Editors