Monolithic materials are not meeting the increasing demand for flexible, lightweight and compact high energy density dielectrics. This limitation in performance is due to the trade-off between dielectric constant and dielectric breakdown. Insulating polymers are of interest owing to their high inherent electrical resistance, low dielectric loss, flexibility, light weight, and low cost; however, capacitors produced with dielectric polymers are limited to an energy density of ~1-2 J/cc. Polymer nanocomposites, i.e., high dielectric particles embedded into a high dielectric breakdown polymer, are promising candidates to overcome the limitations of monolithic materials for energy storage applications. The main objective of this dissertation is to simultaneously increase the dielectric permittivity and dielectric breakdown without increasing the loss, resulting in a significant enhancement in the energy density over the unmodified polymer. The key is maintaining a low volume content to ensure a high inter-particle distance, effectively minimizing the effect of local field on the composite's dielectric breakdown. The first step is studying the particle size and aspect ratio effects on the dielectric properties to ensure a judicious choice in order to obtain the highest enhancement. The best results, as a combination of dielectric constant, loss and dielectric breakdown, were with the particles with the highest aspect ratio. Further improvement in the dielectric behavior is observed when the nanoparticles surface is chemically tailored to tune transport properties. The particles treatment leads to better dispersion, planar distribution and stronger interaction with the polymer matrix. The planar distribution of the high aspect ratio particles is essential to limit the enhancement of local fields, where minimum local fields result in higher dielectric breakdown in the composite. The most significant improvement in the dielectric properties is achieved with chemically-treated nano TiO2 with an aspect ratio of 14 at a low 4.6 vol% loading, where the energy density increased by 500% compared to pure PVDF. At this loading, simultaneous enhancement in the dielectric constant and dielectric breakdown occurs while the dielectric loss remains in the same range as that of the pristine polymer.

Polymer Nanocomposites for Energy Applications Explore the science of polymer nanocomposites and their practical use in energy applications In Polymer Nanocomposites for Energy Applications, a team of distinguished researchers delivers a comprehensive review of the synthesis and characterization of polymer nanocomposites, as well as their applications in the field of energy. Succinct and insightful, the book explores the storage of electrical, magnetic, and thermal energy and hydrogen. It also discusses energy generation by polymer-based solar cells. Finally, the authors present a life cycle analysis of polymer nanocomposites for energy applications and provide four real-world case studies where these materials have been successfully used. Readers will also find: Thorough introductions to the origins and synthesis of polymer materials In-depth discussions of the characterization of polymeric materials, including UV-visible spectroscopy Comprehensive explorations of a wide variety of polymer material applications, including in biotechnology and for soil remediation Fulsome presentations of polymer nanocomposites and their use in energy storage systems Perfect for materials and engineering scientists and polymer chemists, Polymer Nanocomposites for Energy Applications will also earn a place in the libraries of professionals working in the chemical industry.

Conducting Polymer-Based Nanocomposites: Fundamentals and Applications delivers an up-to-date overview on cutting-edge advancements in the field of nanocomposites derived from conjugated polymeric matrices. Design of conducting polymers and resultant nanocomposites has instigated significant addition in the field of modern nanoscience and technology. Recently, conducting polymer-based nanocomposites have attracted considerable academic and industrial research interest. The conductivity and physical properties of conjugated polymers have shown dramatic improvement with nanofiller addition. Appropriate fabrication strategies and the choice of a nanoreinforcement, along with a conducting matrix, may lead to enhanced physicochemical features and material performance. Substantial electrical conductivity, optical features, thermal stability, thermal conductivity, mechanical strength, and other physical properties of the conducting polymer-based nanocomposites have led to high-performance materials and high-tech devices and applications. This book begins with a widespread impression of state-of-the-art knowledge in indispensable features and processing of conducting polymer-based nanocomposites. It then discusses essential categories of conducting polymer-based nanocomposites such as polyaniline, polypyrrole, polythiophene, and derived nanomaterials. Subsequent sections of this book are related to the potential impact of conducting polymer-based nanocomposites in various technical fields. Significant application areas have been identified for anti-corrosion, EMI shielding, sensing, and energy device relevance. Finally, the book covers predictable challenges and future opportunities in the field of conjugated nanocomposites. Integrates the fundamentals of conducting polymers and a range of multifunctional applications Describes categories of essential conducting polymer-based nanocomposites for polyaniline, polypyrrole, polythiophene, and derivative materials Assimilates the significance of multifunctional nanostructured materials of nanocomposite nanofibers Portrays current and future demanding technological applications of conjugated polymer-based nanocomposites, including anti-corrosion coatings, EMI shielding, sensors, and energy production and storage devices

Polymer-Based Nanocomposites for Energy and Environmental Applications provides a comprehensive and updated review of major innovations in the field of polymer-based nanocomposites for energy and environmental applications. It covers properties and applications, including the synthesis of polymer based nanocomposites from different sources and tactics on the efficacy and major challenges associated with successful scale-up fabrication. The chapters provide cutting-edge, up-to-date research findings on the use of polymer based nanocomposites in energy and environmental applications, while also detailing how to achieve material’s characteristics and significant enhancements in physical, chemical, mechanical and thermal properties. It is an essential reference for future research in polymer based nanocomposites as topics such as sustainable, recyclable and eco-friendly methods for highly innovative and applied materials are current topics of importance. Covers a wide range of research on polymer based nanocomposites Provides updates on the most relevant polymer based nanocomposites and their prodigious potential in the fields of energy and the environment Demonstrates systematic approaches and investigations from the design, synthesis, characterization and applications of polymer based nanocomposites Presents a useful reference and technical guide for university academics and postgraduate students (Masters and Ph.D.)

Polymer Blend Nanocomposites for Energy Storage Applications presents the latest developments in polymer blend-based nanocomposites for applications in energy storage, covering theoretical concepts, preparation methods, characterization techniques, properties and performance. The book begins by introducing polymer blend-based nanocomposites, preparation methods, mechanisms, requirements, theory, modeling, and simulation, with subsequent sections covering the use of specific base materials, including elastomers, thermoplastics, thermoset polymers, and biodegradable polymers. Final sections covers polymer blend nanocomposites with different fillers, both for conducting polymers and non-conducting polymers. Devices discussed include capacitors, supercapacitors, batteries, fuel cells, and solar cells. Finally, other key aspects are considered, including the conversion from laboratory to industry and recycling and lifecycle assessment of polymer blend nanocomposites used in energy devices. - Focuses on nanocomposites based on polymer blends, both conducting and non-conducting - Guides the reader to applications in capacitors, supercapacitors, batteries, fuel cells, solar cells, and other areas - Considers modeling and simulation, translation from lab to industry, recycling, and lifecycle assessment

Polymer Nanocomposites: Fabrication to Applications offers readers an up-to-date interpretation of various polymeric nanocomposite materials and technologies via critical reviews. It covers developments and advancements in various nanomaterials, polymeric materials, biopolymers, and processes. It initiates from nanomaterial synthesis, fabrication, and characterization to the manufacturing aspect and feasible product applications of polymer-based nanocomposites. The prime focus is on polymer matrix nanocomposites and their future trends in the engineering sector. Features: Explores synthesis, characterization, properties, fabrication/processing, and applications of polymer nanocomposite materials Elaborates on polymer manufacturing phase challenges using various control methods and statistical tools and modules Includes machining and micro (μ) machining investigation on the polymer nanocomposites Discusses modeling, simulation, and optimization of process parameters during the machining processes and applications of additive manufacturing Comprehends the significance of nanomaterials functionalizing synthetic fibrous and biocompatible composites This book is aimed at researchers and graduate students in mechanical engineering, materials science, polymers, composites, and nanomaterials.

This book covers all aspects of the different classes of nanomaterials – from synthesis to application. It investigates in detail the use and feasibility of developing nanocomposites with these nanomaterials as reinforcements. The book encompasses synthesis and properties of cellulose nanofibers, bacterial nanocellulose, carbon nanotubes / nanofibers, graphene, nanodiamonds, nanoclays, inorganic nanomaterials and their nanocomposites for high-end applications such as electronic devices, energy storage, structural and packaging. The book also provides insight into various modification techniques for improving the functionality of nanomaterials apart from their compatibility with the base matrix.

A one-stop resource for researchers and developers alike, this book covers a plethora of nanocomposite properties and their enhancement mechanisms. With contributors from industry as well as academia, each chapter elucidates in detail the mechanisms to achieve a certain functionality of the polymer nanocomposite, such as improved biodegradability, increased chemical resistance and tribological performance. Special emphasis is laid on the interdependence of the factors that affect the nanocomposite properties such that readers obtain the information necessary to synthesize the polymer materials according to the requirements of their respective applications.

Engineered Polymer Nanocomposites for Energy Harvesting Applications looks at materials engineering, characterization and design aspects of mechanical energy harvesting devices for superior performance. Tapping into electrical energy from various mechanical stimuli, such as stress, elongation, tension and vibration has been getting substantial research attention, however, there are many challenges associated with the development energy harvesters with efficient conversion capabilities. This title consolidates a broad spectrum of material engineering and devices design research into one resource and will be an invaluable reference for those working in this field. - Provides an interdisciplinary book focused on the engineering of high performance polymer-based nanocomposites and design strategies of high performance energy harvesting - Written by leading researchers in the field of materials science, polymer science and nanotechnology from industry, academia, government and private research institutions across the globe - Includes broad coverage of specific analytical techniques that will assist researchers to solve fundamental and applied problems in the development of materials for energy harvesting applications

Supercapacitors have drawn intensive attention owing to their virtues of high power density, long cycle life, short charging time and safe operation for promising applications to resolve problems of limited global energy supply and environmental problems. Supercapacitors are designed to bridge the gap between batteries and capacitors, to form fast charging energy-storage devices of intermediate specific energy. The supercapacitor is an important device in the energy storage and conversion systems, and is used in different applications such as in electric vehicles, uninterruptible power supplies, memory protection of computer electronics and cellular devices.This book serves as a guide in understanding the basics of conducting polymer technology, nanostructurisation of conducting polymers and their composites emerging as a new field of research and development, directed to the creation of new smart materials, especially for supercapacitors.The concepts of supercapacitors are well explained in simple and concise form to avoid the confusion of students and academic professionals. The book has chemical engineering orientation and therefore, professionals from the polymer science field may find this book most suitable for their advanced and applied field of research. It will provide them an opportunity to learn about conducting polymers and nanocomposites, and their production and processing technology for supercapacitors. Although the attention is mainly focused on preparation of conducting polymer based binary and ternary nanocomposites and their electrochemical performances for supercapacitor application, this book will be a valuable reference for scientists, engineers, students and general readers who are interested in the investigation and exploitation of the fascinating new class of conducting polymer nanocomposites.