Biopolymers-Clay Nanocomposites: Synthesis Pathways, Properties, and Applications

Abstract

Biopolymer-clay nanocomposites have attracted great attention worldwide from both academic and industrial points of view. This chapter aims to report on very recent developments in types of biopolymer-clay nanocomposites, their constituents, synthetic routes, properties, and their uses in various fields. This new family of composite materials frequently exhibits remarkable improvements in material properties when compared with the matrix biopolymers alone or conventional micro- and macrocomposites. The quality of such materials is a major environmental concern, and the production of nanocomposites may decrease the impact of the problem. Biopolymer reinforced with nanofillers is a potential solution to the issue. Functional nanomaterials can be fabricated by the effective interaction between nanofillers and eco-friendly biopolymers. This interaction also enhances physicochemical features and biological properties. They do not only own exceptional properties but can also be made to display combination of properties for multifunctional applications.