Showing papers on "Polymer nanocomposite published in 2020"

Polymer/molecular semiconductor all-organic composites for high-temperature dielectric energy storage.

Abstract: Dielectric polymers for electrostatic energy storage suffer from low energy density and poor efficiency at elevated temperatures, which constrains their use in the harsh-environment electronic devices, circuits, and systems. Although incorporating insulating, inorganic nanostructures into dielectric polymers promotes the temperature capability, scalable fabrication of high-quality nanocomposite films remains a formidable challenge. Here, we report an all-organic composite comprising dielectric polymers blended with high-electron-affinity molecular semiconductors that exhibits concurrent high energy density (3.0 J cm−3) and high discharge efficiency (90%) up to 200 °C, far outperforming the existing dielectric polymers and polymer nanocomposites. We demonstrate that molecular semiconductors immobilize free electrons via strong electrostatic attraction and impede electric charge injection and transport in dielectric polymers, which leads to the substantial performance improvements. The all-organic composites can be fabricated into large-area and high-quality films with uniform dielectric and capacitive performance, which is crucially important for their successful commercialization and practical application in high-temperature electronics and energy storage devices. Dielectric polymers are widely used in electrostatic energy storage but suffer from low energy density and efficiency at elevated temperatures. Here, the authors show that all-organic composites containing high-electron-affinity molecular semiconductors exhibit excellent capacitive performance at 200 °C.

Mechanisms of mechanical reinforcement by graphene and carbon nanotubes in polymer nanocomposites

Abstract: Polymer nanocomposites reinforced with carbon-based nanofillers are gaining increasing interest for a number of applications due to their excellent properties. The understanding of the reinforcing mechanisms is, therefore, very important for the maximization of performance. This present review summarizes the current literature status on the mechanical properties of composites reinforced with graphene-related materials (GRMs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and identifies the parameters that clearly affect the mechanical properties of the final materials. It is also shown how Raman spectroscopy can be utilized for the understanding of the stress transfer efficiency from the matrix to the reinforcement and it can even be used to map stress and strain in graphene. Importantly, it is demonstrated clearly that continuum micromechanics that was initially developed for fibre-reinforced composites is still applicable at the nanoscale for both GRMs and CNTs. Finally, current problems and future perspectives are discussed.

Ultrahigh enhancement rate of the energy density of flexible polymer nanocomposites using core–shell BaTiO3@MgO structures as the filler

Abstract: Dielectric energy storage capacitors are critical components widely used in electronic equipment and power systems due to their advantages of ultrahigh power density and high voltage. Herein, a novel core–shell BaTiO3@MgO (BT@MO) nanostructure was fabricated, in which highly insulating MgO was directly coated on a continuous ferroelectric nanoparticle BaTiO3 shell through a chemical precipitation method to improve the breakdown strength and electric displacement under high electric field. A large electric displacement (D ≈ 9.8 μC cm−2 under 571.4 MV m−1) was observed along with a high discharge energy density (Ud ≈ 19.0 J cm−3) for BT@MO/P(VDF-HFP) composites, which was 187% higher than that for a P(VDF-HFP) film when the filler content was 3 wt%. The enhancement rate of Ud in this study achieved the highest level among the reported results. It was revealed that the highly insulating MgO shell can enhance the breakdown strength by preventing charge injection from electrodes and impeding the development of electrical stress during the breakdown process, as confirmed by the leakage current measurements and the finite element simulations. The core–shell BT@MO structured filler provided an effective way to improve the energy storage properties of the polymer-based dielectrics.

Thermal conductivity of graphene-based polymer nanocomposites

Abstract: As a material possessing extremely high thermal conductivity, graphene has been considered as the ultimate filler for fabrication of highly thermally conductive polymer composites. In the past decade, graphene and its derivatives were demonstrated in many studies to be very effective in enhancing the thermal conductivity of various polymers. This paper reviews current progress in the development of graphene/polymer composites with high thermal conductivity. We began with the effects of isotopes, defects/doping, edges and substrate, polycrystallinity, functionalization, size and layer number, and folding/twisting on the thermal conductivity of graphene. We then modelled the thermal conductivity of graphene/polymer composites and, through molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, demonstrated its dependence on interfacial thermal conductance as well as size, dispersion and volume fraction of graphene. After a critique of recent studies on thermally conductive graphene/polymer composites and their potential applications, we identified several outstanding issues, new challenges and opportunities for future endeavours.

Role of Polymer Structures in Catalysis by Transition Metal and Metal Oxide Nanoparticle Composites.

Abstract: Nanoparticle (NP)/polymer nanocomposites received considerable attention because of their important applications including catalysis. Metal and metal oxide NPs may impart catalytic properties to polymer nanocomposites, while polymers with a different structure, functionality, and architecture control the NP formation (size, shape, location, composition, etc.) and in this way, govern catalytic properties of nanocomposites. In this review we will discuss the influence of the polymer nanostructure (thin or grafted layers, polymer ordering, polymer nanopores), architecture (branched vs linear), functional groups (coordinating or ionic), specific properties (reducing, stimuli responsive, conductive), etc. on the formation of metal or metal oxide NPs and the catalytic behavior of the nanocomposites. The development of novel and efficient catalysts is crucial for progress in chemical sciences, and this explains a huge number of publications in this area in recent years. Taking into consideration previous review articles on NP/polymer catalysts, we limited this review to a discussion of a narrow temporal scope (2017-April 2019), while embracing a broad subject scope, i.e., considering any polymers and NPs which form catalytic nanocomposites. This gives us a unique view of the field of catalytic polymer nanocomposites and allows understanding of where the field is going.

Polymer Matrix Nanocomposites with 1D Ceramic Nanofillers for Energy Storage Capacitor Applications.

Abstract: Recent developments in various technologies, such as hybrid electric vehicles and pulsed power systems, have challenged researchers to discover affordable, compact, and super-functioning electric energy storage devices. Among the existing energy storage devices, polymer nanocomposite film capacitors are a preferred choice due to their high power density, fast charge and discharge speed, high operation voltage, and long service lifetime. In the past several years, they have been extensively researched worldwide, with 0D, 1D, and 2D nanofillers being incorporated into various polymer matrixes. However, 1D nanofillers appeared to be the most effective in producing large dipole moments, which leads to a considerably enhanced dielectric permittivity and energy density of the nanocomposite. As such, this Review focuses on recent advances in polymer matrix nanocomposites using various types of 1D nanofillers, i.e., linear, ferroelectric, paraelectric, and relaxor-ferroelectric for energy storage applications. Correspondingly, the latest developments in the nanocomposite dielectrics with highly oriented, surface-coated, and surface-decorated 1D nanofillers are presented. Special attention has been paid to identifying the underlying mechanisms of maximizing dielectric displacement, increasing dielectric breakdown strength, and enhancing the energy density. This Review also presents some suggestions for future research in low-loss, high energy storage devices.

Polymer/Metal Organic Framework (MOF) Nanocomposites for Biomedical Applications

Abstract: The utilization of polymer/metal organic framework (MOF) nanocomposites in various biomedical applications has been widely studied due to their unique properties that arise from MOFs or hybrid composite systems. This review focuses on the types of polymer/MOF nanocomposites used in drug delivery and imaging applications. Initially, a comprehensive introduction to the synthesis and structure of MOFs and bio-MOFs is presented. Subsequently, the properties and the performance of polymer/MOF nanocomposites used in these applications are examined, in relation to the approach applied for their synthesis: (i) non-covalent attachment, (ii) covalent attachment, (iii) polymer coordination to metal ions, (iv) MOF encapsulation in polymers, and (v) other strategies. A critical comparison and discussion of the effectiveness of polymer/MOF nanocomposites regarding their synthesis methods and their structural characteristics is presented.

Negatively Charged Nanosheets Significantly Enhance the Energy-Storage Capability of Polymer-Based Nanocomposites

Abstract: Polymer-based dielectric materials play a key role in advanced electronic devices and electric power systems. Although extensive research has been devoted to improve their energy-storage performances, it is a great challenge to increase the breakdown strength of polymer nanocomposites in terms of achieving high energy density and good reliability under high voltages. Here, a general strategy is proposed to significantly improve their breakdown strength and energy storage by adding negatively charged Ca2 Nb3 O10 nanosheets. A dramatically enhanced breakdown strength (792 MV m-1 ) and the highest energy density (36.2 J cm-3 ) among all flexible polymer-based dielectrics are observed in poly(vinylidene fluoride)-based nanocomposite capacitors. The strategy generalizability is verified by the similar substantial enhancements of breakdown strength and energy density in polystyrene-based nanocomposites. Phase-field simulations demonstrate that the further enhanced breakdown strength is ascribed to the local electric field, produced by the negatively charged Ca2 Nb3 O10 nanosheets sandwiched with the positively charged polyethyleneimine, which suppresses the secondary impact-ionized electrons and blocks the breakdown path in nanocomposites. The results demonstrate a new horizon of high-energy-density flexible capacitors.

2D Ti3C2Tx MXene/polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanocomposites for attenuation of electromagnetic radiation with excellent heat dissipation

Abstract: The present study deals with novel, and cost-effective preparation of 2D MXene (Ti3C2Tx) filled polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymer nanocomposite for the attenuation of electromagnetic interference (EMI). The obtained nanocomposite showed remarkable shielding effectiveness (SE) of 48.47 ± 3.5 dB for 22.55 vol% filler contents at a thickness of 2 mm. Formation of conducting network along with the assembly of micro capacitor network preserved for its high EMI shielding performance. The absorption dominated EMI shielding mechanism explained by the strong resonance, and interfacial polarization favors the loss of incident EM energy confirmed from dielectric measurements. Besides, the enhanced thermal conductivity of MXene-PVDF nanocomposites about 0.767 ± 0.034 Wm−1K−1 at 22.55 vol% filler content depicts that a large amount of incident EM wave attenuated majorly by dielectric components which would be dissipated as heat quickly. The fabricated MXene-PVDF nanocomposites could be a potential candidate for EMI shielding materials and promising multifaceted electronic utilization.

Electrical conductivity of CNT/polymer composites: 3D printing, measurements and modeling

Abstract: We present electrical conductivity measurements and modeling aspects of carbon nanotube (CNT)/polymer composites enabled via fused filament fabrication (FFF) additive manufacturing (AM). CNT/polylactic acid (PLA) and CNT/high density polyethylene (HDPE) filament feedstocks were synthesized through melt blending with controlled CNT loading to realize 3D printed polymer nanocomposites. Electrical conductivity of 3D printed CNT/PLA and CNT/HDPE composites was measured for various CNT loadings. Low percolation thresholds were obtained from measured data as 0.23 vol. % and 0.18 vol. % of CNTs for CNT/PLA and CNT/HDPE nanocomposites, respectively. Moreover, a micromechanics-based two-parameter agglomeration model was developed to predict the electrical conductivity of CNT/polymer composites. We further show that the two agglomeration parameters can also be used to describe segregated structures, wherein nanofillers are constrained to certain locations within the matrix. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first ever electrical conductivity model to account for segregation of CNTs in the matrix. A good agreement between measured conductivity and predictions demonstrates the adequacy of the proposed model. We further evince the robustness of the model by accurately capturing the conductivity measurements reported in the literature for both elastomeric and thermoplastic nanocomposites. The findings of the study would provide guidelines for the design of electro-conductive polymer nanocomposites.

Carbon-Based Polymer Nanocomposite for High-Performance Energy Storage Applications.

Abstract: In recent years, numerous discoveries and investigations have been remarked for the development of carbon-based polymer nanocomposites. Carbon-based materials and their composites hold encouraging employment in a broad array of fields, for example, energy storage devices, fuel cells, membranes sensors, actuators, and electromagnetic shielding. Carbon and its derivatives exhibit some remarkable features such as high conductivity, high surface area, excellent chemical endurance, and good mechanical durability. On the other hand, characteristics such as docility, lower price, and high environmental resistance are some of the unique properties of conducting polymers (CPs). To enhance the properties and performance, polymeric electrode materials can be modified suitably by metal oxides and carbon materials resulting in a composite that helps in the collection and accumulation of charges due to large surface area. The carbon-polymer nanocomposites assist in overcoming the difficulties arising in achieving the high performance of polymeric compounds and deliver high-performance composites that can be used in electrochemical energy storage devices. Carbon-based polymer nanocomposites have both advantages and disadvantages, so in this review, attempts are made to understand their synergistic behavior and resulting performance. The three electrochemical energy storage systems and the type of electrode materials used for them have been studied here in this article and some aspects for example morphology, exterior area, temperature, and approaches have been observed to influence the activity of electrochemical methods. This review article evaluates and compiles reported data to present a significant and extensive summary of the state of the art.

3D Shapeable, Superior Electrically Conductive Cellulose Nanofibers/Ti3C2Tx MXene Aerogels/Epoxy Nanocomposites for Promising EMI Shielding.

Abstract: In this work, 3D highly electrically conductive cellulose nanofibers (CNF)/Ti3C2Tx MXene aerogels (CTA) with aligned porous structures are fabricated by directional freezing followed by freeze-drying technique, and the thermally annealed CTA (TCTA)/epoxy nanocomposites are then fabricated by thermal annealing of CTA, subsequent vacuum-assisted impregnation and curing method Results show that TCTA/epoxy nanocomposites possess 3D highly conductive networks with ultralow percolation threshold of 020 vol% Ti3C2Tx When the volume fraction of Ti3C2Tx is 138 vol%, the electrical conductivity ( ), electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE), and SE divided by thickness (SE/d) values of the TCTA/epoxy nanocomposites reach 1672 S m-1, 74 dB, and 37 dB mm-1, respectively, which are almost the highest values compared to those of polymer nanocomposites reported previously at the same filler content In addition, compared to those of the samples without Ti3C2Tx, the storage modulus and heat-resistance index of TCTA/epoxy nanocomposites are enhanced to 97925 MPa and 3107°C, increased by 62% and 69°C, respectively, presenting outstanding mechanical properties and thermal stabilities The fabricated lightweight, easy-to-process, and shapeable TCTA/epoxy nanocomposites with superior EMI SE values, excellent mechanical properties, and thermal stabilities greatly broaden the applications of MXene-based polymer composites in the field of EMI shielding

Polymer grafted carbon nanotubes—Synthesis, properties, and applications: A review

Abstract: Carbon-based nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have become the most promising materials in biomedical, electronic and aerospace applications. When added to polymers, they can enhance the properties and the utility of the polymers to a large extent. This is because of their superior thermo-mechanical and electrical properties which can be effectively transferred to the resulting composites with their proper dispersion in the polymer matrix. But the uniform dispersion of CNTs in various polymer matrices is the major challenge faced by scientists. This paper critically reviews the different chemical strategies adopted for grafting polymers onto the CNTs which ultimately leads to better polymer-filler interaction and optimum filler dispersion for the development of high-performance polymer nanocomposites. This review also discusses the synthesis, properties, and applications of polymer grafted CNTs and their composites.

Cationic Dye Removal Using Novel Magnetic/Activated Charcoal/β-Cyclodextrin/Alginate Polymer Nanocomposite.

Abstract: New magnetic iron oxide (Fe3O4)/activated charcoal (AC)/β-cyclodextrin (CD)/sodium alginate (Alg) polymer nanocomposite materials were prepared by direct mixing of the polymer matrix with the nanofillers. The obtained materials were utilized as nano-adsorbents for the elimination of methylene blue (MB), a hazardous water-soluble cationic dye, from aqueous solutions, and showed excellent regeneration capacity. The formation of the nanocomposites was followed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and adsorption of N2 at -196 °C. The rate of adsorption was investigated varying several factors, namely contact time, pH, amount of adsorbent and MB concentration on the adsorption process. Studies dealing with equilibrium and kinetics were carried out in batch conditions. The obtained results indicated that the removal rate of MB was 99.53% in 90 min. Langmuir's isotherm fitted better to the equilibrium data of MB. Fe3O4/AC/CD/Alg polymer beads shows amazing adsorption capacities in the elimination of cationic dyes (2.079 mg/g for polymer gel beads and 10.63 mg g-1 for dry powder beads), in comparison to other adsorbent materials. The obtained adsorbent is spherical with hydrophobic cross-linked surface properties that enable an easy recovery without any significant weight loss of in the adsorbent used.

A review on the mechanical and thermal properties of graphene and graphene-based polymer nanocomposites: understanding of modelling and MD simulation

Abstract: Simulation of molecular dynamics (MD) allows mimicking the systematic variation of mechanical properties beyond the capacity of experimental methods. In this review, the status of the molecular mod...