Hybrid Nanofillers Research Articles

Interfacial engineering of 0D–2D hierarchical MXene@PEI@AgNC nanohybrids to achieve flame retardant, mechanical and antibacterial properties of ABS nanocomposites

It is an intractable challenge that the hierarchical MXene-based nanohybrid fillers are intended to modify the inherent flammability and easily breeding bacteria property of ABS polymeric materials, thereby facilitating wide applicability of ABS composites. Here, an interface engineering strategy was proposed, wherein polyethyleneimine (PEI)-modified silver nanocubes (AgNCs) was firmly assembled on MXenes via electrostatic interaction to construct 0D–2D hierarchical MXene-based nanohybrids (MXene@PEI@AgNC). The MXene was protected and the interface compatibility between MXene-based nanohybrid and ABS matrix was enhanced. Results revealed that the unique hierarchical structure of the composite promoted enhanced dispersion of MXene@PEI@AgNC in the ABS matrix. Combustion tests showed that 1.0 wt%MXene@PEI@AgNC provided the ABS with effective fire safety. Moreover, ABS-1.0 wt%MXene@PEI@AgNC exhibited a 31.88 % decrease in peak heat release rate, a 39.60 % decrease in peak smoke release rate, a 41.50 % decrease in peak CO2 production rate, and a 50.04 % reduction in the smoke factor. Meanwhile, 1.0 wt%MXene@PEI@AgNC improved the tensile strength of ABS-1.0 %MXene@PEI@AgNC (+18.1 %) without reducing the elongation at break. They also enhanced the antibacterial properties of ABS-1.0 %MXene@PEI@AgNC. This study proposed a novel and feasible approach to address the interfacial stability of MXene and to construct MXene-based hierarchical nanoblends, thereby facilitating the wide practical applications of polymeric nanomaterials in industry.

Fabrication and characterization of new hot extruded ZK60/CNTs+AgNPs nanocomposites for biomedical applications

Magnesium (Mg), with properties such as biodegradability and having a density and elasticity coefficient close to the bones of the body, has attracted a lot of attention as a serious option for orthopedic applications. However, the low compressive strength of Mg compared to the human bone and its weak antibacterial function limit its applications as a substitute for temporary implants to be used under load-bearing conditions. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the synergistic effect of CNTs + AgNPs nanofillers on the in vitro degradation, mechanical and antibacterial behavior of new ZK60/xCNTs + xAgNPs(x: 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1) composites made using semi powder metallurgy, followed by hot extrusion method. The ZK60/0.5CNTs+0.5 AgNPs (CA2) composite boasts a higher ultimate compressive strength (UCS) of 371 ± 15 MPa compared to 297 ± 6 MPa for ZK60 based alloys. The CA2 composite also exhibits a grain size of 9.8 μm and a microhardness of 81 HV.Also, the antibacterial activity assessment demonstrated that adding CNTs + AgNPs hybrid nanofillers to the Mg matrix could notably prevent growing and penetration of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), which indicates the synergy between antibacterial mechanisms of CNTs and AgNPs. Cytotoxicity studies confirm that composites with low amounts of CNTs + AgNPs did not show cytotoxic behavior against MG63 cells, although higher loading of CNTs + AgNPs caused toxicity. Also, the examination of osteogenic activity is consistent with other results. In general, according to the results, the potential application of CA2 composite for under load bearing implant application and bone infection treatment is proved.

Use of nanocelluloses from orange peel and ZnO as hybrid nanofiller in developing functionalized starch nanocomposite for edible coatings

AbstractThis study explores the formulations of orange peel nanocelluloses (NC) with tailored dimensions for the development of functionalized nanocomposites coatings on green chilies. In the present century, the valorization of agro‐waste, specifically orange peel for developing NC facilitated sustainable packaging such as edible films and coatings with improved properties has received importance. As, this approach aligns with the sustainable development goals, including reduced food waste and agro waste. For the work, the derived orange peel celluloses were acid hydrolyzed using sulfuric acid (H2SO4) and hydrochloric acid (HCl) to deliver cellulose nanofibers (CNF) and cellulose nanoparticles (CNP), respectively. The fabricated CNP and CNF were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The FESEM morphology showed the formation of CNP with diameter ranges from 42.4 to 108 nm and formation of CNF with diameter ranged from 27.4 to 50.5 nm. The creation of the functionalized nanocomposite was done by reinforcing with hybrid nanofillers consisting CNF, CNP consecutively with ZnO in corn starch for tailormade packaging properties in terms of mechanical, physicochemical, optical, thermal properties, and so on. The results reveal improved tensile strength, and reduced water vapor transmission rates of nanocomposite with the addition of hybrid nanofillers. Additionally, green chilies were coated with the functionalized nanocomposites prepared by different concentrations of nanofillers. The storage analysis was performed in terms of weight loss, total chlorophyll content, and microbiological analysis. The developed coatings were found to be effective in extending the shelf life of green chilies. The control samples showed significantly higher weight loss compared to coated ones. The coated samples showed significantly better firmness and total chlorophyll content after 20 days of storage. In comparison to other coatings, NC and ZnO incorporated starch‐based coating was found to be the most effective in maintaining the quality of fresh green chilies throughout the storage. Thus, incorporating NC and ZnO in starch‐based films and coatings presents a promising avenue for sustainable packaging and preservation.Highlights Agro‐waste orange peel was valorized to develop sustainable food packaging. Orange peel‐based nanocellulose was developed using H2SO4 and HCl. Nanocomposite film was developed using hybrid nanofillers. Nanocomposites provide tailored properties due to the nanofillers. Developed nanocomposite was used as edible coatings on green chilies.

Augmented barrier properties of poly (lactic acid) composite packaging film reinforced by antibacterial hybrid bio‐filler: Extending the shelf life of fruits

AbstractThis work investigates the construction of biodegradable packaging film based on polylactic acid (PLA) reinforced with a novel antibacterial hybrid nanofiller to improve barrier and mechanical properties. The study focuses on incorporating silver‐ingrained silica particles (Ag–In–Si) into PLA matrix to prepare the packaging film (Ag–In–SiPLA) that has superior antibacterial, and barrier property with negligible oxygen and water vapour penetration. The Ag was synthesized using natural neem leaf extract as a reducing agent. To ingrain silver over rice husk silica (Si) an in situ technique was adopted. Hence called Ag‐In‐Si bio‐filler. The Ag–In–SiPLA films were fabricated using melt blending and sheet extrusion methods by means of a micro‐compounder. The addition of rice husk silica served the purpose of cost‐effectiveness of the packaging film along with the enhancement of the oxygen and water barrier properties of the films. The optimized sample (PLA loaded with 3% Ag–In–Si), exhibited optimum transparency, moisture resistance, and barrier properties compared with control PLA film. The experiments on Muntingia calabura (Jamaica cherry) preservation have verified the remarkable effectiveness of Ag–In–SiPLA films in preserving their quality for an extended period. These biodegradable packaging films, composed of food‐grade materials and sustainable ingredients, have the potential to provide a compostable and environmentally friendly solution for various packaging applications. This research shed light on the antibacterial Ag–In–SiPLA film as a long‐term, high‐performance fruit packaging solution.Highlights Novel antibacterial PLA composite with enhanced barrier and mechanical properties. Silver‐ingrained silica particles improve antibacterial and barrier properties. Green synthesis of silver using neem leaf extract Melt blending and sheet extrusion used to create cost‐effective packaging films. Ag–In–SiPLA films extend Muntingia calabura preservation, proving effective.

Microstructure-mechanical property relationships of polymer nanocomposite reinforced with lyophilized montmorillonite/carbon nanotubes hybrid particles

Abstract Introducing multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and montmorillonite (MMT) simultaneously into a polymer can significantly enhance its properties. Meanwhile, choosing the best technique to homogeneously disperse these nanohybrid particles in polymers, without agglomerates, is still a challenge. In this study, a hybrid MMT/MWCNT, prepared by lyophilization process, is introduced in polylactide (PLA). Morphology of the resulting nanocomposites displays synergistic relationships of the MMT/MWCNT, facilitating dispersion in PLA. The analysis of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) specific particle densities of PLA0.5hyb, PLA1.0hyb, and PLA2.0hyb shows values of 77, 64, and 35 µm⁻2, respectively. This suggests that MMT platelets are significantly more exfoliated in PLA0.5hyb compared to the other nanocomposites. It also indicates that filler aggregation increases as the MMT/MWCNT concentration increases. Compared to neat PLA, elastic modulus of nanocomposites increased by up to 46 %, demonstrating the reinforcing effect of MMT/MWCNT hybrid nanofillers. The nanocomposites exhibit viscosity, plasticity and damage phenomena, which are significantly decreased because of the MMT/MWCNT incorporation, compared to neat PLA. Furthermore, the viscoelastic properties, analyzed by dynamic thermal-mechanical analysis, record about 27 % increase in the storage modulus of the nanocomposites compared to PLA, indicating the effectiveness of the hybrid MMT/MWCNT in increasing the resistance of PLA/MMT/MWCNT nanocomposite against thermomechanical aggression.

Explore the effect of magnesium oxide nanoparticles decorated graphene oxide hybrid nanofillers reinforced polyaniline ternary nanocomposites on optical, thermal, and dielectric properties

The Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves utilized for the synthesis of magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgONPs) are readily available and pose little risk of harm. The MgONPs@GO hybrid nanofillers are synthesized through in situ method and is reinforced with polyaniline (PANI) to enhance its electrical characteristics and thermal stability. The UV-visible spectroscopy demonstrates the formation of a charge transfer complex in the PANI/MgONPs@GO ternary nanocomposites. The presence of functional groups in the PANI/MgONPs@GO ternary nanocomposites was detected using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The crystalline phases of the PANI/MgONPs@GO ternary nanocomposites were validated using x-ray diffraction (XRD) investigation. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) technique was used to investigate the nanostructured morphology of the PANI/MgONPs@GO ternary nanocomposites. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed that the PANI/MgONPs@GO ternary nanocomposites exhibited greater thermal stability compared to the pure PANI. The AC conductivity (σ ac), dielectric permittivity (ε′), and dielectric loss (tanδ) of PANI/MgONPs@GO ternary nanocomposites exhibit a substantial increase compared to pure PANI.

Fabrication, evaluation, and mechanism of TPU nanocomposites containing MWCNTs–Fe2O3 hybrid conductive nanofillers for selective VOC sensing applications

AbstractVolatile organic compounds (VOCs) are highly harmful substances that can bring serious harm to the environment and human health. In this work, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) conductive nanocomposite sensors for selective gas sensing of VOCs were designed and fabricated using electrospun TPU fibers as templates and MWCNTs–Fe2O3 as conductive hybrid nanofillers through a homogeneous liquid impregnation method. The microstructure of TPU matrix fibers and the TPU nanocomposites, and their gas‐sensitive response performance to various VOCs, were investigated. The formation of MWCNTs–Fe2O3 nanofillers was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and Raman analysis. Field emission scanning electron microscope showed that MWCNTs–Fe2O3 nanofillers were uniformly coated on the surface of TPU, forming effective and complete conductive networks. The average volume resistivity of TPU nanocomposites (containing 4.76 wt% MWCNTs–Fe2O3) was reduced from 1.5 × 1012 Ω·mm in pure TPU matrix fiber to 2.93 × 105 Ω·mm. Gas‐sensitive performance tests with 500 ppm of ether, ammonia, formaldehyde, ethanol, xylene, toluene, benzene vapor, and acetone showed that the response value of TPU/MWCNTs–Fe2O3 nanocomposites to ether was 85.7%, and the resistance ratio of desorption to the initial one was 1.01, which was almost a complete recovery. In addition, the gas response values of TPU nanoconductive composites under different humidity environments show better stability.Highlights Novel TPU composites contain MWCNTs–Fe2O3 conductive nanofillers were proposed. Synthesized TPU nanocomposite fibers by electrospinning and liquid dip methods. TPU nanocomposite sensors combine fast response, selectivity, and repeatability. TPU nanocomposites exhibited high gas‐sensitive response selectivity to ether.

Effect of Hybrid Nanofillers on the Mechanical Characteristics of Polymethyl Methacrylate Denture Base Composite

The research study focused on enhancing the mechanical characteristics of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) denture bases. PMMA is commonly used in dentistry due to its easy fabrication, cost-effectiveness, and favourable physical properties. However, its limitations include low wear resistance, hardness, and mechanical strength, making it less suitable for long-term dental applications. To address these limitations, the study employed a combination of hybrid nano-fillers, specifically HNTs (halloysite nanotubes) and MWCNTs (multi-walled carbon nanotubes), at varying loading levels to improve the mechanical characteristics of the PMMA composite. These nano-fillers underwent treatment by using a coupling agent to enhance their compatibility with PMMA. Key findings of the research include that introducing HNTs/MWCNTs into the PMMA matrix led to a substantial increase in flexural strength, with a significant improvement of 109.1 MPa compared to unfilled PMMA. This indicates that the composite material became more resistant to bending or deformation. There was a substantial rise in flexural modulus values, suggesting improved stiffness in the nanocomposite compared to unfilled PMMA. In addition, the tensile strength of the PMMA composite increased by 64.4 MPa with the addition of the hybrid nano-fillers, indicating enhanced resistance to stretching or pulling forces. The study found that the improvement in flexural and tensile strength was dependent on the concentration of MWCNTs. Increasing the MWCNT concentration up to 0.75 wt.% led to improved mechanical properties, but further increases resulted in a reduction in PMMA properties. Although there was a modest improvement in Vickers hardness (approximately 18.93 kg/mm<sup>2</sup>), the addition of HNTs/MWCNTs as hybrid nano-fillers effectively enhanced the properties of the PMMA nanocomposite. The study concludes that incorporating hybrid nano-fillers into PMMA could contribute to the longevity and durability of dental composites, addressing some of the material's inherent limitations. The specific combination and concentration of nano-fillers played a crucial role in determining the mechanical properties of the resulting nanocomposite.

A comparative study on the thermomechanical properties of polymeric nanocomposites incorporating single, mixed, and hybrid nanofillers

A comparative study on the thermomechanical properties of polymeric nanocomposites incorporating single, mixed, and hybrid nanofillers

INVESTIGATION OF THE MECHANICAL AND TRIBOLOGICAL BEHAVIOURS OF CUPOLA SLAG AND MWCNT-REINFORCED EPOXY HYBRID NANOCOMPOSITES: A SUSTAINABLE APPROACH FOR ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION

This experimental investigation explores the mechanical and tribological characteristics of cupola slag (CS) and multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) reinforced hybrid nanofiller epoxy composites. Cupola slag is an industrial by-product that is generated during the melting of cast iron. The disposal of slag residues in landfills results in environmental pollution. In the context of environmental preserving as well developing new engineering composites material from waste to resource. MWCNTs possess an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, high stiffness, and thermal properties. The mechanical and tribological characteristics of the hybrid nanocomposites comprising epoxy were examined by varying the weight fraction of fillers composed of CS and MWCNTs. The experimental results indicated that the ECSM3 hybrid nanocomposites have superior tensile strength and the flexural modulus improved by 92 % and 78 % respectively when compared with epoxy. Similarly, the tribology performance of the ECSM3 exhibited improved specific wear resistance of 97 %, 106 % and 88 % on the dry-sliding loads of 10 N, 20 N and 30N, respectively. A morphological analysis was carried out on fractured and worn surfaces of the specimen to understand the homogeneous dispersion and matrix-interlocking mechanism between the hybrid nanofillers and the epoxy matrix. The integration of CS alongside MWCNTs for the fabrication of epoxy hybrid nanocomposites represents a stride towards sustainable and eco-friendly technology in the production of multifunctional composite materials for diverse engineering applications.

Enhancement of electrical conductivity and band gap of epoxy/MWCNT/GNP/glass fibers hybrid materials

Polymer composites containing carbon nanoparticles have attracted considerable attention because of their special functional characteristics. Characterization of optical and dielectric characteristics was done. To comprehend the impact of nanofillers, dielectric characteristics, UV–Vis spectroscopy, XRD, and Fourier transform spectroscopy were employed. The role of carbon fillers on metrics, such as band gap energy, absorption coefficient, and dielectric characteristics of nanocomposites was examined to differentiate between the effects of nanofillers. The AC conductivity is explained following the classical percolation theory. The percolation threshold is discovered to be 1 wt.% of a hybrid system of nanofillers consisting of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The presence of carbon nanofillers significantly enhances the electrical conductivity of the nanocomposites. The optical band gap energy of nanocomposites was obtained from the Tauc method. The study establishes the relationship between band gap energy and AC conductivity using Tauc’s relation and Jonscher’s power law. The results show that the band gap energy of composites decreases with the addition of hybrid nanofillers, with values observed at 2.65 eV and 2.95 eV, while without fillers of 3.1 eV and 3.05 eV attributed to increased localized states within the bandgap. Composites with nanofillers show an AC conductivity of 1.86 S/m at 1 wt% of nanofillers, compared to 1.52 × 10−6 S/m and 1.09 × 10−6 S/m for composites without nanofillers. The UV–Vis spectra reveal a significant blue shift in the absorption peak when the weight percentage of carbon nanoparticles is increased. The findings of this study point toward the possibilities of the development of novel nanocomposites with enhanced performance for electronics and energy storage.

Influence of hybrid nanofiller on elastic behavior and stiffness of basalt/E-glass MWCNTs/SiO2 hybrid nanocomposites

Sustainable material development techniques help in finding and employing sustainable materials without compromising quality. Composite materials are crucial in structural design, automotive manufacture, and aeronautical engineering. Advanced materials that use reinforcement and filler ingredients must be developed strategically to improve strength and performance. Hence, this study develops hybrid nanocomposites with hybrid nanofillers (MWCNTs and SiO2) and hybrid fibers (basalt and E-glass) and optimizes the competition to maximize elastic behavior and stiffness. Using a hand layup approach, composite samples were made by altering mass fractions of two filler materials (0%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2% by weight) and epoxy matrices (40%, 38%, 37%, and 36%). Shore D hardness and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) were used to evaluate the composites. The storage modulus, loss modulus, and damping coefficients are examined using DMA. Specifically, the largest storage modulus is 4.86 × 1010 Pa at 61 °C, while the peak loss modulus is 1.01 × 1010 Pa at 80 °C. The highest damping coefficient is 0.25. Note that 1.5% MWCNTs and SiO2 filler materials independently contribute to the excellent storage and loss modulus. However, an outstanding damping coefficient was achieved without filler materials. The highest achieved shore D hardness value is 88. Filler materials are used to achieve this high hardness.

Visible light-responsive TiO2-based hybrid nanofiller reinforced multifunctional chitosan film for effective fruit preservation

In this study, we developed a multifunctional chitosan film with visible light-responsive photocatalytic properties by incorporating a novel nanofiller—a nanohybrid particle of poly(tannic acid) (PTA) and TiO2 (TP-NPs). Firstly, the hybridization of TiO2 with PTA not only improved its dispersion but also obtained TP-NPs with smaller band gaps (from 3.11 eV to 1.55 eV) and higher separation efficiency of photogenerated e−-h+ (about 1.5-fold enhancement), thereby producing more reactive oxygen species and enhancing the antibacterial efficacy (compared with TiO2, the antibacterial effect of TP-NPs on Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was heightened by about 2 times under visible light for 1 h). Secondly, TP-NPs were hydrogen bonded with chitosan, strengthening its mechanical and barrier properties, while imparting exceptional antibacterial efficacy. Moreover, the multifunctional properties enabled the active film to effectively delay the quality deterioration of grapes and kiwifruit. Hence, this study presented a multifunctional active packaging film tailored for fruit preservation.

Synergistic effect of silver nanoparticles decorated graphene quantum dots nanohybrids reinforced polyaniline ternary nanocomposites on optical, thermal, and dielectric properties

ABSTRACT In situ synthesized graphene quantum dots (GQDs) decorated with green synthesized AgNPs (AgNPs@GQDs) hybrid nanofillers reinforced polyaniline (PANI) ternary nanocomposites was synthesized by in situ polymerization. The UV-Vis spectroscopy showed the presence of AgNPs at 402 nm in AgNPs@GQDs hybrid nanofillers, and a charge transfer complex was formed between PANI matrix and AgNPs@GQDs hybrid nanofillers. The direct optical band gap of the ternary nanocomposites calculated from UV-Vis analysis is found to be 3.085 eV, which indicates the ternary nanocomposite may be used for solar cell applications. The Fourier transfer infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy represented the occurrence of interphase interactions between the ternary nanocomposites. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) data showed the positions and intensities of the hybrid nanofillers and PANI matrix. The morphology of the ternary nanocomposites was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) attributed to the thermal degradation of the ternary nanocomposites. The cyclic voltammetry (CV) showed the oxygen reduction potential of the ternary nanocomposites. Photoluminescence (PL) activity of the ternary nanocomposites was confirmed by fluorescence spectroscopy. The AC conductivity of the ternary nanocomposites significantly increases as compared to pure PANI due to the presence of uniformly distributed hybrid nanofillers within PANI matrix.

Dielectric Characterization and Machine Learning-Based Predictions in Polymer Composites with Mixed Nanoparticles

Our research described in this manuscript investigated the dielectric properties and structural characteristics of Bisphenol-A epoxy resin composites infused with various concentrations (5 wt.%, 10 wt.%, and 15 wt.%) of hybrid nanofillers, namely alumina (Al2O3) and zinc oxide (ZnO). Ultrasonic dispersion was utilized to integrate the nanofillers into the resin matrix. Structural properties were assessed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), which confirmed the presence of the Al2O3 and ZnO nanoparticles within the epoxy matrix. Dielectric properties were measured over a frequency range of 104 Hz to 2 MHz. The results provide new insights into the polarization mechanisms and structural characteristics of these composites, highlighting their potential for enhanced dielectric performance in high-frequency applications. To further understand and predict these dielectric properties, the CatBoost and LightGBM regression models were employed to predict the dielectric constant (ε'), loss tangent (tan δ), and AC conductivity (σac) of these composites. The models demonstrated strong predictive accuracy, with performance metrics, including Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), and R-squared (R2), indicating the robustness and accuracy of the models in predicting the dielectric properties of the composites. The study’s findings underscore the significant potential of Bisphenol-A epoxy resin composites with hybrid nanofillers for high-frequency dielectric applications.

Effect of graphene nanoplatelets and nano zinc oxide on gas barrier and antibacterial properties of thermoplastic nanocomposites

AbstractGraphene‐loaded thermoplastic nanocomposite films must be evaluated for antibacterial activity, mechanical, and barrier properties before being utilized as food packaging. Herein, economically feasible linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE)‐based flexible packaging materials were developed via the melt compounding technique at 170°C temperature by taking advantage of both graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) and nano zinc oxide (ZnO) fillers. Morphological studies reveal that in composites loaded with GNP/ZnO hybrid fillers, ZnO nanoparticles form a network‐like structure throughout the polymer matrix. Simultaneously, GNPs are uniformly dispersed. The inclusion of hybrid nanofiller considerably reduces both the oxygen transmission rate and the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) in LLDPE nanocomposites. A maximum decrease of 36% and 67%, respectively, in both oxygen transmission rate and WVTR is observed for 3 wt% of hybrid filler loading in a thermoplastic matrix containing 1 wt% of nano ZnO. The antibacterial efficacy of the derived nanocomposite films is obvious against gram‐positive (Bacillus subtilis) and gram‐negative (Escherichia coli) bacterial strains. These nanocomposite films have the potential to be successfully utilized as flexible packaging materials owing to their improved thermal, barrier, and antibacterial effectiveness.Highlights GNP/ZnO was used as a hybrid reinforcing filler in the LLDPE matrix. ZnO nanoparticles establish a network‐like morphology. LLDPE nanocomposite films exhibited excellent antibacterial activity. Oxygen and water vapor barrier properties were significantly improved. The thermoplastic composite films could be used as food packaging materials.

Novel Nafion nanocomposite membranes embedded with TiO2-decorated MWCNTs for high-temperature/low relative humidity fuel cell systems

Extending the operation of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) at high temperature (i.e., 120 °C) and/or low relative humidity (< 50% RH) remains a significant challenge due to dehydration and subsequent performance failure of the Nafion electrolyte. We approached this problem by integrating the Nafion matrix with a novel hybrid nanofiller, created through direct growth of TiO2 nanoparticles on the surface of carbon nanotubes. This synthetic approach allowed to preserve an effective nanodispersion of Titania particles in the hosting matrix, thereby boosting dimensional stability, hydrophilicity, and physiochemical properties of the Nafion/MWCNTs-TiO2 (NMT-x) nanocomposites compared to parental Nafion. At optimal concentration (i.e., 3 wt% with respect to the polymer), the nanocomposite membrane exhibited high transport characteristics with impressive water retention capabilities, resulting in a proton conductivity of 8.3 mS cm− 1 at 80 °C and 20% RH. The Titania nanoparticles plays a key role in retaining water molecules even under dehydrating conditions, while also directly contributing to proton transport. Additionally, the long carbon nanotubes promote the formation of additional paths for proton conductivity. These combined features enabled the NMT-3 membrane to achieve a maximum power output of 307.7 mW/cm2 in a single H2/air fuel cell (5 cm2 active electrode area and 0.5 mg Pt/cm2 at both electrodes) under very challenging conditions, specifically at 120 °C and 30% RH. This represents a significant advancement towards overcoming the limitations of traditional Nafion membranes and opens up new possibilities for high-temperature, low-humidity H2/air fuel cell applications.

DRY SLIDING WEAR BEHAVIOUR OF CARBON NANOTUBE/ALUMINA/EPOXY HYBRID NANOCOMPOSITES

In the field of materials science, polymer composites have been extensively used in various industries such as marine, automotive, aerospace, sports and other industries due to their good dimensional stability and excellent structural properties. In this present research investigation, epoxy served as the polymer material, while multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and alumina nanofillers were employed for reinforcing the matrix through hybridization. The wear characteristics of the composite material were examined under dry sliding conditions, employing a pin-on-disc machine with a track diameter of 50 mm. The load on the specimen was varied between low (20 N), medium (40 N) and high (60 N), while the weight fraction of the hybrid nanofillers underwent variations in a range of 0.1–0.5 w/% with an increment of 0.1 w/%. The results showed that the reinforcement of hybrid nanofillers significantly reduces the wear phenomena of the composite material. Hybrid nanocomposites with (0.1, 0.2 and 0.3) w/% of MWCNTs-Al2O3 exhibit noteworthy advancements in the wear resistance. Particularly the 0.3 w/% MWCNTs-Al2O3 hybrid nanocomposite demonstrates exceptional wear resistance compared to pure epoxy. The incorporation of 0.3 w/% of MWCNTs-Al2O3 results in a significantly improved wear resistance, with enhancements of (83, 81 and 80) % observed during low (20 N), moderate (40 N) and high (60 N) loading conditions, respectively, compared to pure epoxy. Similarly, deformation, delamination and filler plugging were observed with medium and high load. The surface morphology of the worn specimens was assessed through the application of field emission scanning electron microscopy.

Preparation and Analysis of New Hybrid PAEK Nano-Composites Containing MWCNT, Inorganic and Organic Nano-Particles

In modern era light weight material with complex shape and high material properties is required for advanced applications at room temperature. In this concern, the experimental study analysis to observe the effect of different nanofiller material like GO, MWCNT, NH2 and COOH modified MWCNT as organic nanofiller and WS2 and MoS2 as inorganic nanofiller reinforced in pure PAEK. This experimental study focuses on incorporation of organic and inorganic nanofillers separately and combine as hybrid nanofiller nanocomposite. On preparation of PAEK nano-composite and hybrid nanocomposite the comparative study of mechanical properties like tensile, flexural and impact is carried out. The nano-composites were prepared by melt compounding method. Scanning Electron Microscopy confirm the homogenous dispersion and alignment of nanofilers. The hybrid nano-composites show highest tensile strength as compared to the organic and in-organic nanofiller nanocomposite. As the percentage of MWCNT increases from 0.2 to 1 wt% , the properties of nano-composites decreases due agglomeration tendency of MWCNT that results in low load transfer capacity of nanocomposite, therefore agglomeration tendency of MWCNT required to be controlled for preparation of nano-composite and this is achieved by reinforcing Hybrid nanofillers to pure PAEK matrix. However, organic filler shows 75 MPa to 83 MPa tensile properties and which is lower compared to in-organic and hybrid filler due agglomeration tendency of organic nanofiller confirmed by SEM analysis.

Evaluation of improved tribo-performance characteristics of MoS2 functionalized MWCNTs hybrid reinforced epoxy composites for severe erosion conditions

Solid particle erosion (SPE) has become a major concern for epoxy composite structures exposed to high erosion conditions. A novel erosion-resistive hybrid nanofiller molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) functionalized MWCNTs have been synthesized by hydrothermal route. Epoxy nanocomposite with MoS2 functionalized MWCNTs showed enhanced SPE resistance and mechanical properties as compared to conventional MWCNTs nanocomposites. Epoxy/MoS2/MWCNTs – 1 nanocomposite showed low erosion rate of 471 mg/Kg and 132 mg/Kg at 15° and 90° impact angles, whereas epoxy/MWCNTs nanocomposite showed high erosion rate of 548 mg/Kg and 300 mg/Kg at 15° and 90° impact angles respectively. Erosion efficiency parameter (η) was used to predict the possible erosion mechanism and was further validated using FE-SEM analysis.