Polymer nanocomposites (PNCs), i. e. nanofillers dispersed in a polymer matrix, have become a prominent area of current research promoted by rapid developments in the polymer science and nanotechnology. As a promising alternative to conventional composites which are reinforced with micro-scale fillers, PNCs exhibit substantially improved overall performance and simplified processing at much lower nanofiller loadings. PNCs have great potentials for a broad range of applications, e. g. environmental remediation, energy storage/conversion, transportation, and national defense. In this regard, the most recent advances in PNCs for the environmental remediation, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding and sensing & actuation applications are presented. Challenges and perspectives of PNCs are also discussed.
Polymer matrixesWith an almost unlimited selection of monomers, oligomers, and chemistries available, a myriad of polymer matrixes with tuned physiochemical properties (i. e. molecular structure, chemical stability, flame retardancy, abrasion resistance, transparency, and conductivity) for versatile applications can be designed. [9] For example, linear-structured thermoplastic polymers (i. e. polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, poly(methyl methacrylate), polyvinyl chloride, polyamides, polyether sulfone, and polyetherether ketone) can be reshaped and recycled via various processing techniques such as injection molding, compression molding, and extrusion upon heating. Thermoplastic polymers find their wide applications such as drinking water bottles, grocery bags, household food covering, etc. [10] On the contrast, thermosetting polymers with three-dimensional network of bonds (i. e. epoxy, phenol-formaldehyde, ureaformaldehyde) cannot be melted or reshaped after curing, and are often featured with high mechanical strength and stiffness. [11] Therefore, thermosetting polymers are more suitable for high-temperature applications.[a] Dr.