This new book provides a solid understanding of the recent developments in the field of composites and nanocomposites. It explains the significance of the new fillers, such as graphene and arbon nanotubes in different matrix systems. The application of these materials in biological and others fields also makes this book unique. This detailed study of nanocomposites, their structure, processing and characterization will be of value in all walks of engineering life. The book covers the following topics: • polymer matrix composites • ceramic matrix composites • carbon matrix composites • wood-based composites • biocomposites • ecocomposites • nanocomposites • processing • properties • fracture and damage mechanics • durability • and more Composite materials are solids that contain two or more distinct constituent materials or phases, on a scale larger than the atomic. The term “composite” is usually reserved for those materials in which the distinct phases are separated on a scale larger than the atomic, and in which properties such as the elastic modulus are significantly altered in comparison with those of a homogeneous material. Composites have properties that cannot be achieved by either of the constituent materials alone. Composites are becoming more and more important as they can help improve our quality of life. Composites are put into service in flight vehicles, automobiles, boats, pipelines, buildings, roads, bridges, and dozens of other products. Researchers are finding ways to improve other qualities of composites so they may be strong, lightweight, long-lived, and inexpensive to produce. The science and engineering of composites and nanocomposites draws on traditional characterization and processing technologies. Research describing structures containing nanoparticles seems to rely on methods that are being pushed to the limit of resolution. Preparation of nanocomposites also poses very real processing challenges. The list of questions about the fabrication, characterization, and use of nanocomposites is long despite massive financial and intellectual investment. The magnitude of the effects these small particles impart to the bulk properties of a composite are great enough that the science is likely to continue to grow in importance.

This book presents emerging economical and environmentally friendly polymer composites that are free of the side effects observed in traditional composites. It focuses on eco-friendly composite materials using granulated cork, a by-product of the cork industry; cellulose pulp from the recycling of paper residues; hemp fibers; and a range of other environmentally friendly materials procured from various sources. The book presents the manufacturing methods, properties and characterization techniques of these eco-friendly composites. The respective chapters address classical and recent aspects of eco-friendly polymer composites and their chemistry, along with practical applications in the biomedical, pharmaceutical, automotive and other sectors. Topics addressed include the fundamentals, processing, properties, practicality, drawbacks and advantages of eco-friendly polymer composites. Featuring contributions by experts in the field with a variety of backgrounds and specialties, the book will appeal to researchers and students in the fields of materials science and environmental science. Moreover, it fills the gap between research work in the laboratory and practical applications in related industries.

The addition of nanoparticles to polymer composites has led to a new generation of composite materials with enhanced and novel properties. Advances in polymer nanocomposites reviews the main types of polymer nanocomposites and their applications.Part one reviews types of polymer nanocomposites according to fillers. Processing of carbon nanotube-based nanocomposites, layered double hydroxides (LDHs) and cellulose nanoparticles as functional fillers and reinforcement are discussed, alongside calcium carbonate and metal-polymer nanocomposites. Part two focuses on types of polymer nanocomposites according to matrix polymer, with polyolefin-based, (PVC)-based, nylon-based, (PET)-based and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)-based polymer nanocomposites discussed. Soft, gel and biodegradable polymer nanocomposites are also considered. Part three goes on to investigate key applications, including fuel cells, aerospace applications, optical applications, coatings and flame-retardant polymer nanocomposites.With its distinguished editor and international team of expert contributors, Advances in polymer nanocomposites is an essential guide for professionals and academics involved in all aspects of the design, development and application of polymer nanocomposites. - Reviews the main types of polymer nanocomposites and their applications - Discusses processing of carbon nanotube-based nanocomposites, layered double hydroxides (LDHs) and cellulose nanoparticles as functional fillers and reinforcement - Discusses polyolefin-based, (PVC)-based, nylon-based, (PET)-based and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)-based polymer nanocomposites

This highlights ongoing research efforts on different aspects of polymer nanocomposites and explores their potentials to exhibit multi-functional properties. In this context, it addresses both fundamental and advanced concepts, while delineating the parameters and mechanisms responsible for these potentials. Aspects considered include embrittlement/toughness; wear/scratch behaviour; thermal stability and flame retardancy; barrier, electrical and thermal conductivity; and optical and magnetic properties. Further, the book was written as a coherent unit rather than a collection of chapters on different topics. As such, the results, analyses and discussions presented herein provide a guide for the development of a new class of multi-functional nanocomposites. Offering an invaluable resource for materials researchers and postgraduate students in the polymer composites field, they will also greatly benefit materials

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 Composites with Functional Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Properties, and Applications reviews the latest research in the area of polymer nanocomposites and functionalized nanoparticles, providing an introduction for those new to the field, and supporting further research and development. The book helps researchers and practitioners better understand the key role of nanoparticle functionalization for improving the compatibility of inorganic metallic nanomaterials with organic polymers, and for the fabrication of nanostructured materials with special properties. A range of nanoparticles, such as carbon nanotubes are covered, along with descriptions of the methods of functionalization to support better compatibility with polymer matrices. The book also discusses the various applications of this technology, including uses in electronics and the medical and energy industries. - Summarizes the latest research in functionalized nanoparticles for modification of polymer matrices, providing a valuable platform for further research - Includes functionalization of a range of nanoparticles for incorporation into nanocomposites, including carbon nanotubes, graphene, gold and silver, silica and clay - Provides detailed coverage of application areas, including energy, electronics, biomedical applications, and end-of-life considerations

Polyaniline Blends, Composites, and Nanocomposites summarizes recent advances in polyaniline-based blends, composites and nanocomposites. Polyaniline (PANI) is a conducting polymer with a range of potential applications, particularly in electronics and packaging. The book covers the preparation, characterization and application of PANI-based composites, including the structure-property relationship and modification of PANI. It offers an in-depth update on the major findings and observations in the field of polyaniline-based blends, composites and nanocomposites, with contributions from leading researchers in industry, academia, government and private research institutions worldwide. The book is an application-oriented, practical guide to the development and application of this polymeric material. The book includes discussion of reinforcement of polyaniline via addition of carbon-based materials, blends with thermoplastics, thermosets, natural and synthetic rubber, and polyaniline based composites and nanocomposites, with an emphasis on enabling polymer scientists and engineers to more effectively utilize this material in new applications. - Includes an in-depth update on the state of research into this exciting material, with detailed and practical information for developing emerging applications of polyaniline - Enables polymer scientists and engineers to overcome challenges and take advantage of opportunities relating to polyaniline, e.g., solubility of the polymer, improving conductivity and more - Includes detailed coverage of the preparation, characterization and application of PANI-based composites in detail, along with the structure-property relationship and modification of PANI

This book is a printed edition of the Special Issue "Polymer Nanocomposites" that was published in Nanomaterials

Among the modern materials, the composites have a few decades of history. However, there has been a tremendous advancement of this class of material in science and technology. During recent decades, composite materials have steadily gained ground in nearly all sectors. The composite materials have been used in various industrial applications such as buildings and constructions, aerospace, automotive and sports equipment, consumer products etc. Nanotechnology is rapidly evolving, and science, engineering, and technology have merged to bring nanoscale materials that much closer to reality. It is one of the fastest growing areas for research. Nanocomposite materials are helping improve products that we use every day and creating new, exciting products for the future. Composites and nanocomposites composed of reinforcements, nano-reinforcements, and matrices are well-known engineering materials. Keeping in mind the advantages of composite and nanocomposite materials, this book covers fundamental effects, product development, properties, and applications of the materials including material chemistry, designing, and manufacturing. The book also summarizes the recent developments made in the area of advanced composite and nanocomposite materials. A number of critical issues and suggestions for future work are discussed, underscoring the roles of researchers for the efficient development of composites and nanocomposites through value additions to enhance their use.

Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate) (PET) is an industrially important material which is not treated specifically in any other book. Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate) Based Blends, Composites and Nanocomposites fills this gap and systematically guides the reader through all aspects of PET and its blends, composites and nanocomposites. It covers theoretical fundamentals, nanocomposites preparation, modification techniques, structure-property relationships, characterisation of the different blends and composites, and material choice for specific applications. Consisting of contributions from experts in the field this book is a useful reference for the researchers and engineers working on the development and characterization of PET materials as well as on implementing them in real-world products. It can also be used as a standard reference for deeper insight in the mechanical, thermal, thermo-mechanical and visco-elastic aspects in product design decisions. - Provides a systematic overview on all types of poly(ethylene) terephthalate (PET) based blends, composites and nanocomposites - Informs about characterization, structure-property relationships and types of modifications - Links material properties to specific applications, enabling engineers to make the best material choice to increase product performance and cost efficiency, in industries ranging from aerospace to energy