15 - Electrical and thermal conductivity of environmentally friendly polymer nanocomposites (EFPNCs) using biodegradable polymer matrices and clay/carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforcements

Abstract

The combination of conductive nanofillers and biodegradable polymers has a strong potential for developing a new class of electroactive materials. The primary objective of this chapter is to summarize the recent advancements in characterizing the electrical and thermal conductivities of environmentally friendly polymer nanocomposites. The results reported to date reveal that the incorporation of carbon nanotubes is primarily beneficial in improving the electrical and thermal conductivities of biodegradable polymer matrices.