Recent advances in graphene based polymer composites

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) hold the promise of delivering exceptional mechanical properties and multi-functional characteristics. Ever-increasing interest in applying CNTs in many different fields has led to continued efforts to develop dispersion and functionalization techniques. To employ CNTs as effective reinforcement in polymer nanocomposites, proper dispersion and appropriate interfacial adhesion between the CNTs and polymer matrix have to be guaranteed. This paper reviews the current understanding of CNTs and CNT/polymer nanocomposites with two particular topics: (i) the principles and techniques for CNT dispersion and functionalization and (ii) the effects of CNT dispersion and functionalization on the properties of CNT/polymer nanocomposites. The fabrication techniques and potential applications of CNT/polymer nanocomposites are also highlighted.

Dispersion and functionalization of carbon nanotubes for polymer-based nanocomposites: a review

Studies on the use of natural fibers as replacement to man-made fiber in fiber-reinforced composites have increased and opened up further industrial possibilities. Natural fibers have the advantages of low density, low cost, and biodegradability. However, the main disadvantages of natural fibers in composites are the poor compatibility between fiber and matrix and the relative high moisture sorption. Therefore, chemical treatments are considered in modifying the fiber surface properties. In this paper, the different chemical modifications on natural fibers for use in natural fiber-reinforced composites are reviewed. Chemical treatments including alkali, silane, acetylation, benzoylation, acrylation, maleated coupling agents, isocyanates, permanganate and others are discussed. The chemical treatment of fiber aimed at improving the adhesion between the fiber surface and the polymer matrix may not only modify the fiber surface but also increase fiber strength. Water absorption of composites is reduced and their mechanical properties are improved.

Chemical Treatments of Natural Fiber for Use in Natural Fiber-Reinforced Composites: A Review

This review is designed to be a comprehensive source for polymer nanocomposite research, including fundamental structure/property relationships, manufacturing techniques, and applications of polymer nanocomposite materials. In addition to presenting the scientific framework for the advances in polymer nanocomposite research, this review focuses on the scientific principles and mechanisms in relation to the methods of processing and manufacturing with a discussion on commercial applications and health/safety concerns (a critical issue for production and scale-up). Hence, this review offers a comprehensive discussion on technology, modeling, characterization, processing, manufacturing, applications, and health/safety concerns for polymer nanocomposites.

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Review article: Polymer-matrix Nanocomposites, Processing, Manufacturing, and Application: An Overview

In this article, several applications of nanomaterials in food packaging and food safety are reviewed, including: polymer/clay nanocomposites as high barrier packaging materials, silver nanoparticles as potent antimicrobial agents, and nanosensors and nanomaterial-based assays for the detection of food-relevant analytes (gasses, small organic molecules and food-borne pathogens). In addition to covering the technical aspects of these topics, the current commercial status and understanding of health implications of these technologies are also discussed. These applications were chosen because they do not involve direct addition of nanoparticles to consumed foods, and thus are more likely to be marketed to the public in the short term.

Applications of nanotechnology in food packaging and food safety: Barrier materials, antimicrobials and sensors

Impact and delamination failure of woven-fabric composites

http://repository.ust.hk/ir/bitstream/1783.1-2330/1/EMRS2004Kim.pdf

Moisture barrier characteristics of organoclay-epoxy nanocomposites

Surface functionalities of multi-wall carbon nanotubes after UV/Ozone and TETA treatments

https://repository.ust.hk/ir/bitstream/1783.1-3216/1/LietalFinal.pdf

Morphology and properties of UV/ozone treated graphite nanoplatelet/epoxy nanocomposites

http://repository.ust.hk/ir/bitstream/1783.1-2335/1/Li_etalRevision01Edited.pdf

Man Lung Sham

Papers

Impact and delamination failure of woven-fabric composites

Moisture barrier characteristics of organoclay-epoxy nanocomposites

Surface functionalities of multi-wall carbon nanotubes after UV/Ozone and TETA treatments

Morphology and properties of UV/ozone treated graphite nanoplatelet/epoxy nanocomposites

Conductive graphite nanoplatelet/epoxy nanocomposites: Effects of exfoliation and UV/ozone treatment of graphite