Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Polymer nanocomposites are being used in packaging, sports equipment, automobile sector and bio-medical applications due to their exceptional property combinations and distinctive design feasibility. So keeping these property enhancements polymer nanocomposites has received greater attention in both academic and industrial areas. This paper reviews the various methods for dispersion of nanofillers, their coating on fibres and corresponding properties improvement. Unlike composites these enhancements in properties can be achieved without increase in density as very small amount 1–5% of nanoparticles are loaded. Study reveals that incorporation of different nanoreinforcements such as layered silicate clays, carbon nanotubes, nanofibres and silica nanoparticlenanocomposites into elastomers possess high surface to volume ratio of the reinforcing phase, high aspect ratio and intercalation/exfoliation characteristics which causes properties up gradation such as modulus, strength, durability, toughness and barrier to gases when compared to traditional materials. In addition to property enhancements they are environmental- friendly also. Although they provide great benefits but still manufacturing them in terms of quantity and quality will be one of the biggest challenges. 

Keywords: Diffraction and Mechanical Properties, Nanocomposites, Polymer Composites, Scanning Electron Microscope, X-Ray