Influence of interfacial engineering on properties of polymeric nanoarchitectures
Christopher Igwe Idumah
Abstract
A pertinent concept emerging from nanocomposites/nanoarchitectures is the sharp increment at the interfacial region existing between nanoreinforcements and the polymeric matrices on reduction of at least a single size of the fillers to the nanometric scale. The inclusion of minimal levels of nanoparticulates within polymeric melts has been established to notably enhance the properties of these polymeric nanoarchitectures (PNC) mechanically, thermally, electrically, and optically, in comparison with the unreinforced constituents. The enhancement in material features emanates from the interface created between the nanoreinforcement and bulk polymeric matrices, wherein the inherent chain dynamics varies when compared with the pristine material. Hence, the spatially arranged or nanoreinforcements organization influences the three-dimensional architecture of the interface, resulting in improved control of macroscopically affiliated features. From this perspective, this paper will elucidate on interfacial engineering and controlling in space of confinement as well as the linkage between the interface and the macroscopic features of polymeric nanoarchitectures (PNC). Furthermore, the influence of interfacial interactions on mechanical, thermal, electrical, and flame retardant properties of PNC is critically elucidated.