Why Do Nanoparticles (CNTs) Reduce the Glass Transition Temperature of Nanocomposites?
G. Marom
Abstract
This ‘opinion’ article has been undertaken to provide a plausible answer to the question of why nanocomposites that are reinforced by acicular nanoparticles such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs) do not exhibit the anticipated physical properties—particularly, why the glass transition temperature in some compositions exhibits huge decreases, contrary to expectations. It is claimed that this behavior is typical of fully exfoliated, uniformly dispersed nanocomposites, whose structure is that of molecular composites or solid solutions, and which abide by colligative rules.
Topics & Concepts
NanocompositeCarbon nanotubeNanoparticleMaterials scienceGlass transitionAcicularNanotechnologyComposite materialPolymerMicrostructurePolymer Nanocomposites and PropertiesGlass properties and applicationsCarbon Nanotubes in Composites