12 - Halloysite-Based Polymer Nanocomposites

Abstract

As a hydrated polymorph of 1:1 phyllosilicate clay, halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) are one-dimensional (1D) natural nanomaterials with a unique combination of tubular nanostructure, large aspect ratio, natural availability, rich functionality, good biocompatibility, and high mechanical strength. These generate unique mechanical, thermal, and biological properties that are available at the low cost for fabricating HNTs-based polymer nanocomposites. In the past 10years, there are great advances in the preparation and applications of HNTs/polymer nanocomposites. One unique advantage of HNTs is that they can be incorporated into polymers after loading some active agents. Due to the barrier effect of the nanotubes, the active agents are slowly released from the composite. Other advantages of HNTs are that they can be easily dispersed in polymer matrix by the commonly used techniques including solution mixing and melt mixing. The high-dispersion ability of HNTs lies in the rod-like structure and low density of surface hydroxyl groups. In addition, organics and/or metal nanoparticles can be grafted or anchored onto HNTs, which endow HNTs with diverse functions. Therefore, HNTs show many potential applications in high-performance and multifunctional polymer nanocomposites.