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Progress in Polymer Composites for Different Applications

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A special issue of Polymers (ISSN 2073-4360). This special issue belongs to the section "Polymer Composites and Nanocomposites".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (25 October 2023) | Viewed by 21632

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Special Issue Editor

Dr. Kamila Sałasińska

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Guest Editor

Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland
Interests: polymers; polymer composites; thermosets; burning behaviour; fire retardants
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Polymer composites were developed to simultaneously obtain materials with high strength and low density. Depending on the type of filler composites with fibrous or particles and hybrid composites can be produced. Recently, much research has been going into hybrid composites, where two or more fillers reinforce a matrix. The primary purpose is to overcome the disadvantages of single reinforcement by adding another type of filler. Moreover, the price and the ecological aspect are essential when designing a new material.

As Guest Editor, it is my pleasure to invite you to contribute to this issue with your most recent results in such a field of research. Research articles, as well as reviews on the topics of interest, are both accepted for this Special Issue. Topics can include, but are not limited to:

Novel fillers and their impact on polymer composites performance properties;
Polymer composites characterization, especially using novel research techniques;
Processing of polymer composites for use in different applications, such as the building, automotive, aviation, railway industry etc.;
New applications of polymer composites or the improvement of existing solutions.
Chemical modifications of polymer composites and their effects on performance;

Dr. Kamila Sałasińska
Guest Editor

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. Polymers 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 2700 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
performance properties
characterization
processing
new applications
chemical modifications

Published Papers (13 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 1996 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Thermoplastic Starch Plasticized with Ternary Urea-Polyols Deep Eutectic Solvent with Two Selected Fillers: Microcrystalline Cellulose and Montmorillonite

by Magdalena Zdanowicz and Kamila Sałasińska

Polymers 2023, 15(4), 972; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15040972 - 16 Feb 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1870

Abstract

The aim of the study was to prepare and characterize composite materials based on thermoplastic starch (TPS)/deep eutectic solvent (DES). Potato starch was plasticized with ternary DES: urea:glycerol:sorbitol and modified with the selected fillers: microcrystalline cellulose and sodium montmorillonite. Films were prepared via twin-screw extrusion and thermocompression of the extrudates. Then, the physicochemical properties of the TPS films were examined. The ternary DES effectively plasticized the polysaccharide leading to a highly amorphous structure of the TPS (confirmed via mechanical tests, DMTA and XRD analyses). An investigation of the behavior in water (swelling and dissolution degree) and water vapor transmission rate of the films was determined. The introduction of the two types of fillers resulted in higher tensile strength and better barrier properties of the composite TPS films. However, montmorillonite addition exhibited a higher impact than microcrystalline cellulose. Moreover, a cone calorimetry analysis of the TPS materials revealed that they showed better fire-retardant properties than TPS plasticized with a conventional plasticizer (glycerol). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites for Different Applications)

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26 pages, 8029 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Engineering Polypropylene–Calcium Sulfate (Anhydrite II) Composites: The Key Role of Zinc Ionomers via Reactive Extrusion

by Marius Murariu, Yoann Paint, Oltea Murariu, Fouad Laoutid and Philippe Dubois

Polymers 2023, 15(4), 799; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15040799 - 05 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1950

Abstract

Polypropylene (PP) is one of the most versatile polymers widely used in packaging, textiles, automotive, and electrical applications. Melt blending of PP with micro- and/or nano-fillers is a common approach for obtaining specific end-use characteristics and major enhancements of properties. The study aims to develop high-performance composites by filling PP with CaSO₄ β-anhydrite II (AII) issued from natural gypsum. The effects of the addition of up to 40 wt.% AII into PP matrix have been deeply evaluated in terms of morphology, mechanical and thermal properties. The PP–AII composites (without any modifier) as produced with internal mixers showed enhanced thermal stability and stiffness. At high filler loadings (40% AII), there was a significant decrease in tensile strength and impact resistance; therefore, custom formulations with special reactive modifiers/compatibilizers (PP functionalized/grafted with maleic anhydride (PP-g-MA) and zinc diacrylate (ZnDA)) were developed. The study revealed that the addition of only 2% ZnDA (able to induce ionomeric character) leads to PP–AII composites characterized by improved kinetics of crystallization, remarkable thermal stability, and enhanced mechanical properties, i.e., high tensile strength, rigidity, and even rise in impact resistance. The formation of Zn ionomers and dynamic ionic crosslinks, finer dispersion of AII microparticles, and better compatibility within the polyolefinic matrix allow us to explain the recorded increase in properties. Interestingly, the PP–AII composites also exhibited significant improvements in the elastic behavior under dynamic mechanical stress and of the heat deflection temperature (HDT), thus paving the way for engineering applications. Larger experimental trials have been conducted to produce the most promising composite materials by reactive extrusion (REx) on twin-screw extruders, while evaluating their performances through various methods of analysis and processing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites for Different Applications)

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16 pages, 1299 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Detection of Leachable Components from Conventional and Dental Bulk-Fill Resin Composites (High and Low Viscosity) Using Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) Method

by Matea Lapaš Barišić, Hrvoje Sarajlija, Eva Klarić, Alena Knežević, Ivan Sabol and Vlatko Pandurić

Polymers 2023, 15(3), 627; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15030627 - 25 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1530

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate leachable components (monomers) in high and low viscosity dental bulk-fill resin composites and conventional resin composite materials after polymerization. Six bulk-fill and six conventional dental resin composite materials were used in this study. The samples of each material (three sets of triplicates) were cured for 20 s with irradiance of 1200 mW/cm² with a LED curing unit and immersed in a 75% ethanol solution at 37 °C. The eluates from each triplicate set were analyzed after 24 h, 7 days or 28 days using liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Detectable amounts of 2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) were found in both Gradia materials and the amount observed across different time points was statistically different (p ˂ 0.05), with the amount in solution increasing for Gradia and decreasing for Gradia Direct flo. Bisphenol A diglycidildimethacrylate (BIS GMA) was found in Filtek and Tetric materials. Triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) was detected in all materials. On the other hand, there were no statistically significant differences in the amounts of TEGDMA detected across different time points in either of the tested materials. Monomers HEMA, TEGDMA, 4-dimethylaminobenzoic acid ethyl ester (DMA BEE) and BIS GMA in bulk-fill and conventional composites (high and low viscosity) can be eluted after polymerization. The good selection of composite material and proper handling, the following of the manufacturer’s instructions for polymerization and the use of finishing and polishing procedures may reduce the elution of the unpolymerized monomers> responsible for the possible allergic and genotoxic potential of dental resin composites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites for Different Applications)

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13 pages, 6996 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modification of Polyvinyl Chloride Composites for Radiographic Detection of Polyvinyl Chloride Retained Surgical Items

by Martina Polaskova, Tomas Sedlacek, Zdenek Polasek and Petr Filip

Polymers 2023, 15(3), 587; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15030587 - 23 Jan 2023

Viewed by 1427

Abstract

The ever-present risk of surgical items being retained represents a real medical peril for the patient and potential liability issues for medical staff. Radiofrequency scanning technology is a very good means to substantially reduce such accidents. Radiolucent medical-grade polyvinyl chloride (PVC) used for the production of medical items is filled with radiopaque agents to enable X-ray visibility. The present study proves the suitability of bismuth oxychloride (BiOCl) and documents its advantages over the classical radiopaque agent barium sulfate (BaSO₄). An addition of BiOCl exhibits excellent chemical and physical stability (no leaching, thermo-mechanical properties) and good dispersibility within the PVC matrix. As documented, using half the quantity of BiOCl compared to BaSO₄ will provide a very good result. The conclusions are based on the methods of rotational rheometry, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic mechanical analysis, atomic absorption spectroscopy, and the verification of zero leaching of BiOCl out of a PVC matrix. X-ray images of the studied materials are presented, and an optimal concentration of BiOCl is evaluated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites for Different Applications)

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13 pages, 3014 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Versatile Polypropylene Composite Containing Post-Printing Waste

by Krzysztof Moraczewski, Tomasz Karasiewicz, Alicja Suwała, Bartosz Bolewski, Krzysztof Szabliński and Magdalena Zaborowska

Polymers 2022, 14(24), 5335; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14245335 - 07 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1179

Abstract

The paper presents the results of the research on the possibility of using waste after the printing process as a filler for polymeric materials. Remains of the label backing were used, consisting mainly of cellulose with glue and polymer label residue. The properly prepared filler (washed, dried, pressed and cut) was added to the polypropylene in a volume ratio of 2:1; 1:1; 1:2; and 1:3 which corresponded to approximately 10, 5, 2.5 and 2 wt % filler. The selected processing properties (mass flow rate), mechanical properties (tensile strength, impact strength, dynamic mechanical analysis) and thermal properties (thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry) were determined. The use of even the largest amount of filler did not cause disqualifying changes in the determined properties. The characteristics of the obtained materials allow them to be used in various applications while reducing costs due to the high content of cheap filler. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites for Different Applications)

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19 pages, 8167 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Low Molecular Weight Bio-Polyamide 11 Composites Reinforced with Flax and Intraply Flax/Basalt Hybrid Fabrics for Eco-Friendlier Transportation Components

by Claudia Sergi, Libera Vitiello, Patrick Dang, Pietro Russo, Jacopo Tirillò and Fabrizio Sarasini

Polymers 2022, 14(22), 5053; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14225053 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1551

Abstract

The transportation sector is striving to meet the more severe European legislation which encourages all industrial fields to embrace more eco-friendly policies by exploiting constituents from renewable resources. In this framework, the present work assessed the potential of a bio-based, low molecular weight PA11 matrix reinforced with flax and intraply flax/basalt hybrid fabrics. To this aim, both quasi-static and impact performance were addressed through three-point bending and low-velocity impact tests, respectively. For hybrid composites, the effect of stacking sequence, i.e., [0/0] and [0/90], and fiber orientation were considered, while the effect of temperature, i.e., −40 °C, room temperature and +45 °C, was investigated for laminates’ impact response. The mechanical experimental campaign was supported by thermal and morphological analyses. The results disclosed an improved processability of the low molecular weight PA11, which ensured a manufacturing temperature of 200 °C, which is fundamental to minimize flax fibers’ thermal degradation. Both quasi-static and impact properties demonstrated that hybridization is a good solution for obtaining good mechanical properties while preserving laminates’ lightness and biodegradability. The [0/90] configuration proved to be the best solution, providing satisfying flexural performance, with an increase between 62% and 83% in stiffness and between 19.6% and 37.6% in strength compared to flax-based laminates, and the best impact performance, with a reduction in permanent indentation and back crack extent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites for Different Applications)

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18 pages, 5626 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comprehensive Analysis of the Influence of Expanded Vermiculite on the Foaming Process and Selected Properties of Composite Rigid Polyurethane Foams

by Mateusz Barczewski, Maria Kurańska, Kamila Sałasińska, Joanna Aniśko, Joanna Szulc, Izabela Szafraniak-Wiza, Aleksander Prociak, Krzysztof Polaczek, Katarzyna Uram, Karolina Surmacz and Adam Piasecki

Polymers 2022, 14(22), 4967; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14224967 - 16 Nov 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1392

Abstract

This article presents the results of research on obtaining new polyurethane (PUR) foams modified with thermally expanded vermiculite. The filler was added in amount of 3 wt.% up to 15 wt.%. The additionally applied procedure of immersion the non-organic filler in H₂O₂ was performed to increase the exfoliation effect of thermally treated mineral and additional oxidation the surfaces. The effect of fillers on foaming process, cell structure, thermal insulation, apparent density, compressive strength, thermal properties, and flammability are assessed. The foaming process of PUR foams modified with vermiculite was comparable for all systems, regardless of the content of the filler. A slight increase in reactivity was observed, confirmed by a faster decrease in dielectric polarization for the system with modified vermiculite by H₂O₂. The modification of the reference system with the vermiculite increased the content of closed cells from 76% to 91% for the foams with the highest vermiculite content. Coefficient of thermal conductivity of reference foam and foams modified with vermiculite was in the range 24–26 mW/mK. The use of vermiculite up to 15 wt.% did not influence significantly on mechanical properties and flammability, which from an economic point of view is important because it is possible to reduce the cost of materials by introducing a cheap filler without deteriorating their properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites for Different Applications)

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16 pages, 5877 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dual X-ray- and Neutron-Shielding Properties of Gd₂O₃/NR Composites with Autonomous Self-Healing Capabilities

by Worawat Poltabtim, Arkarapol Thumwong, Ekachai Wimolmala, Chanis Rattanapongs, Shinji Tokonami, Tetsuo Ishikawa and Kiadtisak Saenboonruang

Polymers 2022, 14(21), 4481; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14214481 - 22 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1614

Abstract

The neutron- and X-ray-shielding, morphological, physical, mechanical, and self-healing properties were investigated for natural rubber (NR) composites containing varying gadolinium oxide (Gd₂O₃) contents (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 parts per hundred parts of rubber; phr) to investigate their potential uses as self-healing and flexible neutron- and X-ray-shielding materials. Gd₂O₃ was selected as a radiation protective filler in this work due to its preferable properties of having relatively high neutron absorption cross-section (σ_abs), atomic number (Z), and density (ρ) that could potentially enhance interaction probabilities with incident radiation. The results indicated that the overall neutron-shielding and X-ray-shielding properties of the NR composites were enhanced with the addition of Gd₂O₃, as evidenced by considerable reductions in the half-value layer (HVL) values of the samples containing 100 phr Gd₂O₃ to just 1.9 mm and 1.3 mm for thermal neutrons and 60 kV X-rays, respectively. Furthermore, the results revealed that, with the increase in Gd₂O₃ content, the mean values (± standard deviations) of the tensile strength and elongation at break of the NR composites decreased, whereas the hardness (Shore A) increased, for which extreme values were found in the sample with 100 phr Gd₂O₃ (3.34 ± 0.26 MPa, 411 ± 9%, and 50 ± 1, respectively). In order to determine the self-healing properties of the NR composites, the surfaces of the cut samples were gently pressed together, and they remained in contact for 60 min; then, the self-healing properties (the recoverable strength and the %Recovery) of the self-healed samples were measured, which were in the ranges of 0.30–0.40 MPa and 3.7–9.4%, respectively, for all the samples. These findings confirmed the ability to autonomously self-heal damaged surfaces through the generation of a reversible ionic supramolecular network. In summary, the outcomes from this work suggested that the developed Gd₂O₃/NR composites have great potential to be utilized as effective shielding materials, with additional dual shielding and self-healing capabilities that could prolong the lifetime of the materials, reduce the associated costs of repairing or replacing damaged equipment, and enhance the safety of all users and the public. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites for Different Applications)

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13 pages, 4025 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electrically Conductive Adhesive Based on Thermoplastic Hot Melt Copolyamide and Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes

by Paulina Latko-Durałek, Michał Misiak and Anna Boczkowska

Polymers 2022, 14(20), 4371; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14204371 - 17 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1798

Abstract

For the bonding of the lightweight composite parts, it is desired to apply electrically conductive adhesive to maintain the ability to shield electromagnetic interference. Among various solvent-based adhesives, there is a new group of thermoplastic hot melt adhesives that are easy to use, solidify quickly, and are environment-friendly. To make them electrically conductive, a copolyamide-based hot melt adhesive was mixed with 5 and 10 wt% of carbon nanotubes using a melt-blending process. Well-dispersed nanotubes, observed by a high-resolution scanning microscope, led to the formation of a percolated network at both concentrations. It resulted in the electrical conductivity of 3.38 S/m achieved for 10 wt% with a bonding strength of 4.8 MPa examined by a lap shear test. Compared to neat copolyamide, Young’s modulus increased up to 0.6 GPa and tensile strength up to 30.4 MPa. The carbon nanotubes improved the thermal stability of 20 °C and shifted the glass transition of 10 °C to a higher value. The very low viscosity of the neat adhesive increased about 5–6 orders of magnitude at both concentrations, even at elevated temperatures. With a simultaneous growth in storage and loss modulus this indicates the strong interactions between polymer and carbon nanotubes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites for Different Applications)

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24 pages, 8726 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a New Type of Flame Retarded Biocomposite Reinforced with a Biocarbon/Basalt Fiber System: A Comparative Study between Poly(lactic Acid) and Polypropylene

by Jacek Andrzejewski and Sławomir Michałowski

Polymers 2022, 14(19), 4086; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14194086 - 29 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1682

Abstract

A new type of partially biobased reinforcing filler system was developed in order to be used as a flame retardant for polylactic acid (PLA) and polypropylene (PP)-based composites. The prepared materials intended for injection technique processing were melt blended using the novel system containing ammonium polyphosphate (EX), biocarbon (BC), and basalt fibers (BF). All of the prepared samples were subjected to a detailed analysis. The main criterion was the flammability of composites. For PLA-based composites, the flammability was significantly reduced, up to V-0 class. The properties of PLA/EX/BC and PLA/EX/(BC-BF) composites were characterized by their improved mechanical properties. The conducted analysis indicates that the key factor supporting the effectiveness of EX flame retardants is the addition of BC, while the use of BF alone increases the flammability of the samples to the reference level. The results indicate that the developed materials can be easily applied in industrial practice as effective and sustainable flame retardants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites for Different Applications)

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21 pages, 5275 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Insights into Stoichiometry Adjustments Governing the Performance of Flexible Foamed Polyurethane/Ground Tire Rubber Composites

by Adam Olszewski, Paulina Kosmela, Wiktoria Żukowska, Paweł Wojtasz, Mariusz Szczepański, Mateusz Barczewski, Łukasz Zedler, Krzysztof Formela and Aleksander Hejna

Polymers 2022, 14(18), 3838; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14183838 - 14 Sep 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1340

Abstract

Polyurethanes (PU) are widely applied in the industry due to their tunable performance adjusted by changes in the isocyanate index—stoichiometric balance between isocyanate and hydroxyl groups. This balance is affected by the incorporation of modifiers of fillers into the PU matrix and is especially crucial for PU foams due to the additional role of isocyanates—foaming of the material. Despite the awareness of the issue underlined in research works, the contribution of additives into formulations is often omitted, adversely impacting foams’ performance. Herein, flexible foamed PU/ground tire rubber (GTR) composites containing 12 different types of modified GTR particles differing by hydroxyl value (L_OH) (from 45.05 to 88.49 mg KOH/g) were prepared. The impact of GTR functionalities on the mechanical, thermomechanical, and thermal performance of composites prepared with and without considering the L_OH of fillers was assessed. Formulation adjustments induced changes in tensile strength (92–218% of the initial value), elongation at break (78–100%), tensile toughness (100–185%), compressive strength (156–343%), and compressive toughness (166–310%) proportional to the shift of glass transition temperatures (3.4–12.3 °C) caused by the additional isocyanates’ reactions yielding structure stiffening. On the other hand, formulation adjustments reduced composites’ thermal degradation onset due to the inferior thermal stability of hard segments compared to soft segments. Generally, changes in the composites’ performance resulting from formulation adjustments were proportional to the hydroxyl values of GTR, justifying the applied approach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites for Different Applications)

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23 pages, 5206 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thermomechanical and Fire Properties of Polyethylene-Composite-Filled Ammonium Polyphosphate and Inorganic Fillers: An Evaluation of Their Modification Efficiency

by Mateusz Barczewski, Aleksander Hejna, Kamila Sałasińska, Joanna Aniśko, Adam Piasecki, Katarzyna Skórczewska and Jacek Andrzejewski

Polymers 2022, 14(12), 2501; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14122501 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2214

Abstract

The development of new polymer compositions characterized by a reduced environmental impact while lowering the price for applications in large-scale production requires the search for solutions based on the reduction in the polymer content in composites’ structure, as well as the use of fillers from sustainable sources. The study aimed to comprehensively evaluate introducing low-cost inorganic fillers, such as copper slag (CS), basalt powder (BP), and expanded vermiculite (VM), into the flame-retarded ammonium polyphosphate polyethylene composition (PE/APP). The addition of fillers (5–20 wt%) increased the stiffness and hardness of PE/APP, both at room and at elevated temperatures, which may increase the applicability range of the flame retardant polyethylene. The deterioration of composites’ tensile strength and impact strength induced by the presence of inorganic fillers compared to the unmodified polymer is described in detail. The addition of BP, CS, and VM with the simultaneous participation of APP with a total share of 40 wt% caused only a 3.1, 4.6, and 3 MPa decrease in the tensile strength compared to the reference value of 23 MPa found for PE. In turn, the cone calorimeter measurements allowed for the observation of a synergistic effect between APP and VM, reducing the peak heat rate release (pHRR) by 60% compared to unmodified PE. Incorporating fillers with a similar thermal stability but differing particle size distribution and shape led to additional information on their effectiveness in changing the properties of polyethylene. Critical examinations of changes in the mechanical and thermomechanical properties related to the structure analysis enabled the definition of the potential application perspectives analyzed in terms of burning behavior in a cone calorimetry test. Adding inorganic fillers derived from waste significantly reduces the flammability of composites with a matrix of thermoplastic polymers while increasing their sustainability and lowering their price without considerably reducing their mechanical properties, which allows for assigning developed materials as a replacement for flame-retarded polyethylene in large-scale non-loaded parts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites for Different Applications)

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Review

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38 pages, 4871 KiB

Open AccessReview

Functionalization of Carbon Nanotubes and Graphene Derivatives with Conducting Polymers and Their Applications in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells and Supercapacitors

by Mirela Văduva, Teodora Burlănescu and Mihaela Baibarac

Polymers 2024, 16(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16010053 - 22 Dec 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1007

Abstract

Recent progress concerning the development of counter electrode material (CE) from the dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) and the electrode material (EM) within supercapacitors is reviewed. From composites based on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and conducting polymers (CPs) to their biggest competitor, namely composites based on graphene or graphene derivate (GD) and CPs, there are many methods of synthesis that influence the morphology and the functionalization inside the composite, making them valuable candidates for EM both inside DSSCs and in supercapacitors devices. From the combination of CPs with carbon-based materials, such as CNT and graphene or GD, the perfect network is created, and so the charge transfer takes place faster and more easily. Inside composites, between the functional groups of the components, different functionalizations are formed, namely covalent or non-covalent, which further provide the so-called synergic effect. Inside CPs/CNTs, CNTs could play the role of template but could also be wrapped in a CP film due to π–π coupling enhancing the composite conductivity. Active in regenerating the redox couple I⁻/I₃⁻, the weakly bound electrons play a key role inside CPs/GD composites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites for Different Applications)

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