Properties Of Nanocomposites Research Articles

Thermal Properties of Graphene and Graphene-Based Nanocomposites: A Review

Thermal Properties of Graphene and Graphene-Based Nanocomposites: A Review

Modernizations of graphene nanocomposites using synthesis strategies—State-of-the-art

Graphene has been ranked among one of the most remarkable nanostructure of the carbon world. Graphene modification and nanocomposite formation have been used to expand the practical potential of graphene nanostructure. The overview is an effort to highpoint the indispensable synthesis strategies towards the formation of graphene nanocomposites. Consequently, graphene has been combined with useful matrices (thermoplastic, conducting, or others) to attain the desired end material. Common fabrication approaches like in-situ method, solution processing, and melt extrusion have been widely involved to form the graphene nanocomposites. Moreover, advanced sophisticated methods such as three or four dimensional printing, electrospinning, and others have been used to synthesize the graphene nanocomposites. Focus of all synthesis strategies has remained with the standardized graphene dispersion, physical properties, and applications. However, continuous future efforts are required to resolve the challenges in synthesis strategies and optimization of the parameters behind each technique. As the graphene nanocomposite design and properties directly depend upon the fabrication techniques used, there is obvious need for the development of advanced methods having better control over process parameters. Here, main challenging factors may involve the precise parameter control of the advanced techniques used for graphene nanocomposite manufacturing. Hence, there is not only need of current and future research to resolve the field challenges related to material fabrication but also reporting compiled review articles can be useful for interested field researchers towards challenge solving and future developments in graphene manufacturing.

An Investigation of the Tribological and Mechanical Properties of the Hybrid Mg Nanocomposites Manufactured by Mechanical Alloy

This work explores the impact of fly ash and nanoparticle reinforcements (TiO2 , hBN, B4 C) on the mechanical and tribological properties of magnesium nanocomposites produced via mechanical alloying. The investigation revealed that incorporating these reinforcements increased the compressive strength and microhardness of the composites compared to pure Mg. Notably, the Mg-fly ash + B4 C composite exhibited the highest microhardness (50.74 HV), representing a 71.3% increase. Tribological analysis demonstrated that the Mg-fly ash composite and Mg-fly ash + TiO2 composite displayed slightly lower friction coefficients than pure Mg. The Mg-fly ash + hBN composite exhibited the lowest friction coefficient due to the lubricating nature of hBN. In contrast, the Mg-fly ash + B4 C composite showed the highest friction coefficient due to its inherently rough surface. These findings suggest that the developed hybrid magnesium nanocomposites offer a compelling combination of enhanced mechanical properties and tunable tribological behavior, making them suitable for applications demanding both wear resistance and reduced friction.

Impact of the functionalized clay nanofillers on the properties of the recycled polyethylene terephthalate nanocomposites

AbstractPolymer nanocomposites, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET)‐clay systems, leverage intricate interactions between components to fine‐tune their thermal, mechanical, and rheological properties. In our study, we functionalized montmorillonite clay nanofillers (CloisiteNa+) to fabricate recycled PET‐clay nanocomposites. The nanofillers underwent a three‐step functionalization process, involving the treatment with (3‐Aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES), the grafting of initiating coatings (multifunctional peroxide initiator, [MPI]) onto clay/APTES, and the subsequent fabrication of grafted brushes using poly(butyl methacrylate) (PBMA) or poly(butyl acrylate) (PBA). The functionalization process and the properties of the modified clay were successfully confirmed through Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. The fabrication of nanocomposites, incorporating both clay and functionalized clay, influenced the thermal behavior of the composites, whereas the nanofillers had no discernible impact on the flow temperature. The PET and nanocomposites exhibited liquid viscoelastic behavior, with the exception of PET with clay, which displayed shear‐thinning and “rubber‐like” behavior. Rheological curves and x‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis indicated improved dispersion and compatibility for clay/APTES and clay functionalized with PBA‐grafted brushes within the PET matrix. In some instances, the utilization of functionalized clay resulted in enhanced compatibility and customized properties in PET‐organoclay nanocomposites compared with conventional fillers. These findings bear implications for a broad spectrum of applications involving PET‐organoclay nanocomposites.

Investigation of optical properties of artificial opal-based nanocomposites

In this work, the optical and morphological properties of an artificial opal-ZnO nanocomposite obtained by chemical deposition were investigated. ZnO nanofilm filled in the pores of artificial opals with photonic crystal properties showed a strong effect on their photonic band gap. After filling ZnO nanofilm in the pores of the opal, its photonic bandgap was found to redshift from a wavelength of 585 nm to 625 nm. The pore-filling factor of opal is calculated to be 9.1%. Under the influence of N2 laser radiation, luminescence with a maximum around 435 nm is excited in the opal-ZnO nanocomposite. Its spectrum is shifted towards shorter wavelengths compared to the luminescence spectrum of bare opal. It was discovered that the exciton luminescence of ZnO was suppressed, and the luminescence of the opal-based nanocomposite matrix was enhanced, possibly due to the transfer of energy from the ZnO nanofilm to the luminescence centers localized on the surface of the silicon dioxide from that the artificial opal is consisted.

Ti3C2Tx MXene decorated with NiMnO3 / NiMn2O4 nanoparticles for simultaneous photocatalytic degradation of mixed cationic and anionic dyes

The present report investigated the different mass ratios of Ti3C2Tx MXene decorated NiMnO3 / NiMn2O4 nanoparticles and their enhancement of photocatalytic performance. The NiMnO3 / NiMn2O4 - Ti3C2Tx MXene nanocomposites were synthesized by a simple electrostatic self-assembly method. The physicochemical properties of nanocomposites were analyzed by XRD, SEM, and FESEM with EDAX, FTIR, PL, and UV-Visible spectrometer. The rhombohedral / cubic spinel structure of NiMnO3 / NiMn2O4 was confirmed by the XRD. The SEM and FESEM morphology show that spherical NiMnO3 / NiMn2O4 nanoparticles were decorated on the Ti3C2Tx MXene sheets and also present on the inside of the Ti3C2Tx MXene sheets. The average diameter of NiMnO3 / NiMn2O4 nanoparticles (46 nm) and the interlayer spacing of Ti3C2Tx MXene sheets (56 nm) were measured from FESEM analysis. The energy bandgap of NiMnO3 / NiMn2O4 - MXene nanocomposites was determined as ranging from 1.2 eV to 0.8 eV. The Ni, Mn, O, Ti, C, and F elemental compositions of the composites were analyzed by the EDAX. The effective photo-generated electron transferring from NiMnO3 / NiMn2O4 to Ti3C2Tx MXene was established by the PL quenching of NiMnO3 / NiMn2O4. The 100 % degradation efficiency was achieved in methylene blue (MB). The mixed dye degradation rates achieved for Rhodamine B (RhB), methyl orange (MO), and methylene blue (MB) for 90 %,72 %, and 100 % after 50 min in the presence of NiMnO3 / NiMn2O4 -Ti3C2Tx MXene (20 wt %). According to a scavenger experiment, the predominant species actively involved in the photodegradation process were revealed to •OH and •O2-.

Strain cartography of bilayer graphene‐PDMS nanocomposites using Raman spectroscopy

AbstractEffective transmission of stress between fillers and the host matrix is instrumental in enhancing the properties of nanocomposites and optimizing filler reinforcement. This study delves into understanding stress transfer in materials, exploring the impact of synthesis methods and matrix materials through a comprehensive examination of a bilayer graphene (BLG)‐polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) nanocomposite. BLG was synthesized via chemical exfoliation and subjected to various strain conditions within a PDMS matrix. A precisely controlled strain, ranging from 0% to 0.19%, was applied using a meticulous 4‐point bending method, monitored with a standard strain gauge. The study unveiled significant shifts in the Raman spectra's 2D band, indicating a direct linear relationship with applied strain. Utilizing contour mapping techniques on well‐defined Raman spectra and stress‐induced band shifts, we mapped strain distribution within the BLG layer. The results revealed a gradual increase in strain from the lower to the upper end of the BLG structure, resembling strain behaviors observed in differently shaped fibers. These compelling findings advance our understanding of strain dynamics within BLG‐PDMS nanocomposites, highlighting the crucial role of strain mapping methodologies in scrutinizing the material's structural response to deformation.Highlights The study reports successful synthesis of high‐quality bilayer graphene (BLG) using a chemical exfoliation method, as evidenced by the sharp 2D and G Raman peaks. Significant shifts in 2D band exhibited linear correlation between applied strain; observed within precise strain levels of 0% to 0.19%. Contour maps revealed a gradual increase in strain from the lower to the upper end of the BLG structure, akin to strain behaviors observed in differently shaped fibers.

Structure and Mechanical Properties of iPP-Based Nanocomposites Crystallized under High Pressure.

The unique nonparallel chain arrangement in the orthorhombic γ-form lamellae of isotactic polypropylene (iPP) results in the enhancement of the mechanical properties of γ-iPP. Our study aimed at the investigation of the mechanical properties of γ-iPP nanocomposites with 1-5 wt.% multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and 5 wt.% organo-modified montmorillonite prepared by melt-mixing and high-pressure crystallization. Neat iPP and the nanocomposites were crystallized under high pressures of 200 MPa and 300 MPa, and for comparison under 1.4 MPa, in a custom-built high-pressure cell. The structure of the materials was studied using WAXS, SAXS, DSC, and SEM, whereas their mechanical properties were tested in plane-strain compression. Under a small pressure of 1.4 MPa, polymer matrix in all materials crystallized predominantly in the α-form, the most common monoclinic form of iPP, whereas under high pressure it crystallized in the γ-form. This caused a significant increase in the elastic modulus, yield stress, and stress at break. Moreover, due to the presence of MWCNT, these parameters of the nanocomposites exceeded those of the neat polymer. As a result, a 60-70% increase in the elastic modulus, yield stress, and stress at break was achieved by filling of iPP with MWCNT and high-pressure crystallization.

Influence of design and annealing parameters on measurements of AC properties of NiFe-SiO2 multilayer structures

In this article, due to the exceptionally interesting electrical and magnetic properties of nanocomposites, which include ferromagnetic materials in a dielectric matrix, multilayer NiFe-SiO2 nanocomposites were obtained. The entire sequence of technological processes using magnetron sputtering equipment in the presence of argon was presented, the aim of which was to create structures with different numbers and thicknesses of layers, as well as in two measurement configurations. Measurements of AC electrical properties were carried out in a variable temperature range, i.e. from room temperature to 373 K, using the 4-point method. The obtained measurement results were compared in terms of design parameters, such as thickness and number of layers, as well as technological parameters, such as heating duration. Structural analysis was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to investigate the effect of oxidation on the multilayer structures and to confirm the granular structure of the nanocomposite. Additionally, the chemical composition of the obtained multilayers was examined using Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Resistive parameters were tested in the range of magnetic field induction from 0 T to 0.3 T. Based on the conductivity relationships, it was proven that a hopping mechanism of current conduction occurs in the tested samples. Using the frequency dependencies of the phase shift angle, it is possible to adjust the equivalent RC electronic circuit, thereby determining the potential application of the tested materials.

A model for tensile strength of cellulose nanocrystals polymer nanocomposites

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are rod-shaped, highly crystalline, and possess a high aspect ratio, extensive surface area, and exceptional mechanical properties, making them ideal for reinforcing polymer matrices. However, few models exist for predicting the mechanical properties of CNC-based polymer nanocomposites (PNCs). Existing models often overlook the interphase's role in the mechanical performance of CNC-filled samples, leading to unreliable predictions. This study introduces a straightforward model emphasizing the interphase region and CNC properties to determine the strength of CNC-based system. The model is validated by experimental data and parametric analyses. The results indicate that interphase thickness and strength depending on the interfacial bonds between polymer chains and CNCs along with CNC volume fraction directly control the nanocomposite strength, while a larger CNC diameter diminishes it. Optimal strength in PNCs is achieved with thinner CNCs, thicker and stronger interphase, and higher CNC content. In addition, numerous experimental outputs of various samples show good fitting with model’s predictions.

Investigating the electrochemical performance of MnSe-supported SrZrO3 perovskite oxide nanocomposite as an electrode material for supercapacitor

Currently, the advancement in energy storage technology is a worldwide-based vital challenge, so researchers focused on the development and design of promising electrode materials for energy storage equipment. Perovskite oxide and transition metal selenide nanocomposites can achieve better cycle stability, efficient electric conductivity, high capacity, excellent redox reaction, and inattentive flexibility as electrode materials for energy storage devices and supercapacitor applications. Herein, we present the designed, fabricated, and electrochemical properties of MnSe-supported SrZrO3 nanocomposite via the Pechini method that exhibited more efficient capacitive performance than pristine SrZrO3 and MnSe. The result of electrochemical testing indicates that the SrZrO3–MnSe nanocomposite electrode possessed a battery-type pseudocapacitive nature and displayed a boosted specific capacitance of 1204 Fg-1 at a 5 mV/s scan rate in aqueous 1 M KOH solution under a three-electrode setup and maintained 95.2% retention after 3000th cycles. It also showed a higher electrochemical active surface area (1680.5 cm2), higher energy density (40 Wh/Kg), long-term cyclic stability performance, and enhanced rate capability compared to other prepared products. As a result, these findings have shown that SrZrO3–MnSe nanocomposite can be considered as potential electrode materials and might have emerging applications in commercial products for energy storage devices and supercapacitors.

Electrical Characterization of Epoxy Nanocomposite under High DC Voltage.

This work studies the direct current breakdown characteristics of unfilled epoxy and epoxy nonconductive nanocomposites (SiO2,MgO and Al2O3). It also examines the variation of electrical properties in epoxy nanocomposites. The novel aspect of this study is that the samples of Epoxy nanocomposite were exposed to high voltages of up to six kilo volts for three hours using field electron microscopy under high vacuum conditions (10-5 mbar). The current emitted from these samples was measured at three different intervals of time. In addition, the influence of high voltage on the permittivity, loss factor (tan(δ)), and conductivity of the epoxy nanocomposite was studied. This evaluation was conducted before and after applying the voltage at room temperature, The frequency range extends from 10-2-10-7 Hz using the Novo Control Alpha-A analyzer. Current-voltage characterization was performed through field electron microscopy. The samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. The unfilled epoxy exhibited structural degradation, resulting in the formation of holes when exposed to high voltages of up to six kilo volts, leading to a reduction in electrical properties. Nevertheless, the addition of nanoparticles shows a significant increase in the operational lifetime of the epoxy nanocomposite. The degree of increase in the lifetime of epoxy composite varied depending on several factors such as the type of NPs introduced and their respective sizes. The epoxy/Al2O3 nanocomposite comparing with epoxy/MgO and epoxy/SiO2 nanocomposite showed elevated resistance to direct current breakdown strength and maintaining its dielectric.

The Effect of Graphene Oxide on Optical, Ferroelectric, and Catalytic Properties of Protein-Encapsulated ZnSe Nanocomposite

To explore the effect of graphene oxide (GO) on optical, ferroelectric, and catalytic properties of the protein-encapsulated ZnSe nanocomposite, we have prepared BSA-encapsulated ZnSe (BSA-ZnSe) nanocomposite and graphene oxide integrated BSA-encapsulated ZnSe (GO/BSA-ZnSe) nanocomposite samples. The ZnSe nanoparticles within these nanocomposites exhibit a highly crystalline zincblende structure with an average size of 3.7 nm. Transmission electron microscopy studies confirm the successful integration of GO in the BSA-encapsulated ZnSe sample. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy results suggest that the interactions between ZnSe nanoparticles and BSA, likely facilitated by the amide and hydroxyl groups present in BSA. Optical studies showed that the addition of GO influenced the emission spectra towards a red shift, which is attributed to the conductive influence of graphene oxide. The ferroelectric properties indicated that the graphene integrated ZnSe nanocomposite exhibited high remanence and coercivity due to the interaction of semiconductive ZnSe with GO layers. In terms of catalytic activity, the GO/BSA-ZnSe nanocomposite exhibited better performance compared to the BSA-ZnSe nanocomposite.These results highlight the significant influence of graphene oxide on the optical, ferroelectric, and catalytic properties of the BSA-encapsulated ZnSe nanocomposite.

Structural, Mechanical and Thermal Behaviour of Graphene-Epoxy Polymer Matrix Nanocomposites

The change in characteristics in the microstructural features of epoxy nanocomposites created by reinforcing with graphene oxide (GO) obtained by controlled reduction of GO was investigated. The effects of adding various loadings (0.1–0.5 wt%) of RGO in epoxy resin were examined, with a focus on the material’s response toward mechanical and thermal properties. The robust interfacial bonding between epoxy resin and RGO is attributed to the higher surface area of the exfoliated layered geometry of graphene and is a key factor contributing to the enhanced physical properties in nanocomposite. The optimal incorporation of 2D nanofillers has been determined to induce a synergistic effect, thereby establishing a percolating network in thermal interface materials designed for high-performance electronic device.

Nano reinforced aluminium based Metal Matrix Hybrid Composites - an overview

Aluminium and its alloys find their application in aerospace, automobile, and marine sectors as it costs less and properties like low density, good ductility, high resistance to corrosion etc. However, aluminium has many drawbacks like low resistance to abrasion and wear, poor strength etc. These drawbacks can be overcome by adding certain materials as reinforcement into pure aluminium and its alloy. Hybrid reinforcement imbibes superior properties to Al matrix composites, compared along with single reinforced Al composites. The properties of Al matrix composite is enhanced by reinforcing with nano particles compared to micro reinforcement. In recent years, research advancement is focusing on fabrication of composites prepared by nano reinforcement materials. Various nano materials are used to fabricate aluminium/alloy matrix composites for improved abrasion, enhanced wear properties, high specific strength, better corrosion resistance etc. This review paper gives an overview of various processing techniques, different nano reinforcements used for fabrication of aluminium and its alloy matrix. Further, Hybrid Nano composite properties along with their types, concentration of reinforcement and microstructure of the composite fabricated are discussed. Finally, Future trends and potential applications of aluminium based nano composites are presented and have been concluded with recent advancements in the specified area.

Multiple mechanical recycling of a post-industrial flexible polypropylene and its nanocomposite with clay: Impact on properties for food packaging applications

The development of polymer nanocomposites for food packaging has been increasing, but there is a lack of studies on their recyclability. The modification of the physical-mechanical properties and overall migration of post-industrial flexible recycled polypropylene (PIPP) and PIPP/compatibilizer/NI.44P clay nanocomposite with the simulated repetitive mechanical recycling were comparatively studied. The structure, thermal properties, crystallinity, and water vapor permeability of the nanocomposite were not significantly affected by multiple recycling (three re-extrsuion cyles). Among the mean findings, the melt flow rate of the polymer was the parameter more affected by the reprocessing, especially in the nanocomposite. PIPP and PIPP nanocomposite tended to molar mass reduction by repetitive reprocessing. However, a narrower molar mass distribution was obtained according to the rheological analysis. Clay addition significantly reduced the ductility of the films in the first reprocessing cycle but interestingly, the tensile properties for PIPP and nanocomposite were similar in the fourth cycle. Prominently, overall migration of the nanocomposite to olive oil diminished by reprocessing cycles, while the opposite was found for the PIPP without clay. Nonetheless, in all cases, the overall migration values to ethanol 10% and olive oil were below the maximum limit permitted for food packaging.

Improving the Performance of Titanium Oxide Nanocomposites as NO2 Gas Sensors for Optimum Sensitivity

In this study, we investigate the performance improvement of titanium oxide (TiO2) nanocomposites as NO2 gas sensors for optimum sensitivity. The TiO2 nanocomposites were synthesized using a solvothermal method and were modified with different dopants and additives to enhance their sensing properties. The sensing performance of the TiO2 nanocomposites was evaluated in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, response time, and recovery time. The synthesized nanocomposites were successfully characterized using AFM, FTIR, SEM-EDX and XRD techniques. The results showed that the addition of additives such as TiO2/GO, TiO2-Ag/GO and TiO2- Al2O3/GO: TiO2/GO significantly improved the sensing properties of the TiO2 nanocomposites. The Ag-doped TiO2 nanocomposites exhibited the highest sensitivity towards NO2 gas with a very low detection limit. The Al2O3-doped TiO2 nanocomposites showed good selectivity towards NO2 gas compared to other interfering gases and has led to increase in the surface area. In conclusion, the addition of additives and the optimization of the annealing temperature can significantly improve the sensing properties of TiO2 nanocomposites towards NO2 gas. The findings of this study can contribute to the development of highly sensitive and selective NO2 gas sensors for various applications such as environmental monitoring and industrial safety.

Manipulating the Properties of Polymer Vitrimer Nanocomposites by Designing Dual Dynamic Covalent Bonds.

Polymer vitrimer is a novel material that contains dynamic covalent bonds (DCBs) allowing it to combine the desirable characteristics of both thermoplastics and thermosets. Similar to the traditional polymer nanocomposites, introducing nanoparticles into polymer vitrimer is also an effective strategy to further enhance its properties. However, a comprehensive understanding of matrix and interfacial bond exchange reactions (BERs) to tailor the properties of polymer vitrimer nanocomposites (PVNs) is still lacking. Herein, we utilized coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations to investigate model PVNs in which there are two different kinds of DCBs in the vitrimer matrix and at the interface. Our results show that the normalized bond autocorrelation function (Csw) confirms the independence of BERs in the vitrimer matrix and in the interface. By varying the bond swap energy barrier () in the matrix or in the interface , or in both , a maximum mechanical property is observed at the moderate value of , , or. Meanwhile, the effect of on the stress relaxation and the bond orientation as a function of the time under a fixed strain is well probed, which both decay more slowly at greater . We simulated the tension-recovery curve to examine the effect of on the hysteresis loss and permanent deformation of PVNs, finding an optimal value to achieve its minimum energy dissipation and maximum recovery ratio. Lastly, we investigated the efficiency of self-healing by building and removing walls from the system. Interestingly, a maximum self-healing efficiency of the stress-strain behavior is observed at moderate . Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the relationship between the structure and properties of PVNs, offering implications for the manipulation of their mechanical properties and enhancement of their self-healing capabilities.

High thermal conductivity and low dielectric polyimide nanocomposites using diamine-assisted mechanochemical exfoliation boron nitride and in-situ polymerization under pressure

Advanced integrated circuit materials demand polymer composites with exceptional thermal conductivity and low dielectric constant to minimize power consumption and improve signal transmission. However, conventional methods of improving the thermal conductivity of composites by incorporating thermal conductive fillers result in an increase in dielectric constant, producing a huge challenge in simultaneously achieving enhanced thermal conductivity and low dielectric constant. Herein, a brick-and-mortar structure has been successfully constructed through in-situ polymerization of the diamine-assisted mechanochemical exfoliated (DAME) boron nitride (BN) with trifluoromethyl-containing PI and microporous polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) under pressure. The DAME functionalized BNNS (f-BN) exhibit high aspect ratios, few lattice defects, high yields and excellent dispersion in the POSS/PI matrix. Notably, the obtained 40 wt% f-BN/POSS/PI nanocomposite exhibits a high in-plane thermal conductivity of 17.76 W m−1 K−1 with a 488% enhancement compared to 40 wt% hBN/POSS/PI, and simultaneously maintains low dielectric constant of 2.76 and low dielectric loss of 0.0042 at 1 MHz close to the pure POSS/PI matrix. Density functional theory is utilized to reveal the possible chemical reactions between f-BN and diamine, and the impacts of interfacial functionalization on the thermal conductivity and dielectric properties of nanocomposites are illustrated by molecular dynamics simulations. Furthermore, the DAME method demonstrates good universality among polyimide matrices, and shows excellent practical implementation as a thermal interface material and flexible printed circuit board. This material provides a promising solution for integrated circuits by successfully addressing the challenge of combining low dielectric constant and high thermal conductivity in microelectronic systems.

Synthesis and Properties of Ni-CNT Nanocomposites Using Electrical Explosion of Wire in Different Conditions

Synthesis and Properties of Ni-CNT Nanocomposites Using Electrical Explosion of Wire in Different Conditions