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Polymers
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Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites
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Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites

A special issue of Polymers (ISSN 2073-4360). This special issue belongs to the section "Polymer Applications".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 May 2020) | Viewed by 63917

Printed Edition Available!
A printed edition of this Special Issue is available here.

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Ting-Yu Liu

E-Mail Website1 Website2 Website3
Guest Editor
Department of Materials Engineering, Ming Chi University of Technology, New Taipei City 24301, Taiwan
Interests: polymer nanocomposites; electrochemical and atmospheric plasma-induced polymerization; opto-electric sensing; nanomaterial self-assembly; drug controled release
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Yu-Wei Cheng

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Chemical Engineering, Ming Chi University of Technology, New Taipei City 24301, Taiwan
Interests: polymer nanocomposites; polymer synthesis; organic–inorganic nanohybrids
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Polymer nanocomposites are currently of industrial interest and popular in the field of nanomaterials. As a result, scientists are working to improve the performance of polymeric matrices and inorganic nanomaterials, such as via light magnetic behaviors, electrical/thermal conductivity, toughness, stiffness and mechanical strength. The inorganic quantum dots/nanoparticles, nanorods/nanotubes, and 2D materials (such as graphene-based nanosheets) can be decorated in the polymer matrix by chemical synthesis or physical blending for improved performance. Thus, the technology with which to fabricate the homogeneous dispersion of the fillers in the polymer matrix has been crucial to the field of nanomaterials.

This Special Issue, “Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites”, will collect the innovative original research and review papers that focus on the scientific discussion and practical applications in the field of functional polymer nanocomposites. Examples of acceptable research topics are: (a) green energy, (b) biomedical materials, (c) opto-electronics and sensing, (d) coating, (e) carbon, (f) magnetic materials, and (g) other functional polymer nanocomposites. Topics of special interest include but are not limited to the preparation, chemical synthesis, structural design, material selection, characterization, morphology and applications of advanced polymer nanocomposites. We hope that the Special Issue will promote academic research exchange, as well as identifying and responding to the tremendous challenges currently faced in this burgeoning field.

Dr. Ting-Yu Liu
Dr. Yu-Wei Cheng
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Polymers is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • green energy
  • biomedical materials
  • opto-electronics and sensing
  • coating
  • carbon
  • magnetic materials
  • other functional polymer nanocomposites

Published Papers (18 papers)

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Research

11 pages, 3983 KiB  
Article
The Effect of OMMT on the Properties of Vehicle Damping Carbon Black-Natural Rubber Composites
by Wei Liu, Lutao Lv, Zonglin Yang, Yuqing Zheng and Hui Wang
Polymers 2020, 12(9), 1983; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12091983 - 31 Aug 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2577
Abstract
In this study, the filled natural rubber (NR) was prepared with organic montmorillonite (OMMT) and carbon black (CB). The effects of the amount of OMMT on the properties of CB/NR composites were investigated by measuring the physical and mechanical properties, compression set and [...] Read more.
In this study, the filled natural rubber (NR) was prepared with organic montmorillonite (OMMT) and carbon black (CB). The effects of the amount of OMMT on the properties of CB/NR composites were investigated by measuring the physical and mechanical properties, compression set and compression heat properties, processing properties and damping properties. The formulation was optimized depending on the different conditions of end applications and the damping properties of rubber were maximized without affecting the other properties of the rubber. The results showed that the rubber composite system filled with 2 phr (parts per hundreds of rubber) OMMT had better mechanical properties and excellent damping performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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14 pages, 10014 KiB  
Article
Synergistic Effects of Black Phosphorus/Boron Nitride Nanosheets on Enhancing the Flame-Retardant Properties of Waterborne Polyurethane and Its Flame-Retardant Mechanism
by Sihao Yin, Xinlin Ren, Peichao Lian, Yuanzhi Zhu and Yi Mei
Polymers 2020, 12(7), 1487; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12071487 - 03 Jul 2020
Cited by 56 | Viewed by 4104
Abstract
We applied black phosphorene (BP) and hexagonal boron nitride (BN) nanosheets as flame retardants to waterborne polyurethane to fabricate a novel black phosphorus/boron nitride/waterborne polyurethane composite material. The results demonstrated that the limiting oxygen index of the flame-retarded waterborne polyurethane composite increased from [...] Read more.
We applied black phosphorene (BP) and hexagonal boron nitride (BN) nanosheets as flame retardants to waterborne polyurethane to fabricate a novel black phosphorus/boron nitride/waterborne polyurethane composite material. The results demonstrated that the limiting oxygen index of the flame-retarded waterborne polyurethane composite increased from 21.7% for pure waterborne polyurethane to 33.8%. The peak heat release rate and total heat release of the waterborne polyurethane composite were significantly reduced by 50.94% and 23.92%, respectively, at a flame-retardant content of only 0.4 wt%. The superior refractory performances of waterborne polyurethane composite are attributed to the synergistic effect of BP and BN in the gas phase and condensed phase. This study shows that black phosphorus-based nanocomposites have great potential to improve the fire resistance of polymers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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12 pages, 6085 KiB  
Article
Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Fouling Capabilities of Poly(3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene) Derivative Nanohybrid Coatings on SUS316L Stainless Steel by Electrochemical Polymerization
by Chuan-Chih Hsu, Yu-Wei Cheng, Che-Chun Liu, Xin-Yao Peng, Ming-Chi Yung and Ting-Yu Liu
Polymers 2020, 12(7), 1467; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12071467 - 30 Jun 2020
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3339
Abstract
We have successfully fabricated poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) derivative nanohybrid coatings on flexible SUS316L stainless steel by electrochemical polymerization, which can offer anti-fouling and anti-bacterial capabilities. PEDOT derivative nanohybrids were prepared from polystyrene sulfonates (PSS) and graphene oxide (GO) incorporated into a conducting polymer of [...] Read more.
We have successfully fabricated poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) derivative nanohybrid coatings on flexible SUS316L stainless steel by electrochemical polymerization, which can offer anti-fouling and anti-bacterial capabilities. PEDOT derivative nanohybrids were prepared from polystyrene sulfonates (PSS) and graphene oxide (GO) incorporated into a conducting polymer of PEDOT. Additionally, the negative charge of the PEDOT/GO substrate was further modified by poly-diallyldimethylammonium chloride (PDDA) to form a positively charged surface. These PEDOT derivative nanohybrid coatings could provide a straightforward means of controlling the surface energy, roughness, and charges with the addition of various derivatives in the electrochemical polymerization and electrostatically absorbed process. The characteristics of the PEDOT derivative nanohybrid coatings were evaluated by Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), atomic force microscopy (AFM), water contact angle, and surface potential (zeta potential). The results show that PEDOT/PSS and PEDOT/GO nanohybrid coatings exhibit excellent anti-fouling capability. Only 0.1% of bacteria can be adhered on the surface due to the lower surface roughness and negative charge surface by PEDOT/PSS and PEDOT/GO modification. Furthermore, the anti-bacterial capability (7 mm of inhibition zone) was observed after adding PDDA on the PEDOT/GO substrates, suggesting that the positive charge of the PEDOT/GO/PDDA substrate can effectively kill bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus). Given their anti-fouling and anti-bacterial capabilities, PEDOT derivative nanohybrid coatings have the potential to be applied to biomedical devices such as cardiovascular stents and surgical apparatus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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14 pages, 3754 KiB  
Article
Transdermal Composite Microneedle Composed of Mesoporous Iron Oxide Nanoraspberry and PVA for Androgenetic Alopecia Treatment
by Jen-Hung Fang, Che-Hau Liu, Ru-Siou Hsu, Yin-Yu Chen, Wen-Hsuan Chiang, Hui-Min David Wang and Shang-Hsiu Hu
Polymers 2020, 12(6), 1392; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12061392 - 22 Jun 2020
Cited by 42 | Viewed by 5674
Abstract
The transdermal delivery of therapeutic agents amplifying a local concentration of active molecules have received considerable attention in wide biomedical applications, especially in vaccine development and medical beauty. Unlike oral or subcutaneous injections, this approach can not only avoid the loss of efficacy [...] Read more.
The transdermal delivery of therapeutic agents amplifying a local concentration of active molecules have received considerable attention in wide biomedical applications, especially in vaccine development and medical beauty. Unlike oral or subcutaneous injections, this approach can not only avoid the loss of efficacy of oral drugs due to the liver’s first-pass effect but also reduce the risk of infection by subcutaneous injection. In this study, a magneto-responsive transdermal composite microneedle (MNs) with a mesoporous iron oxide nanoraspberry (MIO), that can improve the drug delivery efficiency, was fabricated by using a 3D printing-molding method. With loading of Minoxidil (Mx, a medication commonly used to slow the progression of hair loss and speed the process of hair regrowth), MNs can break the barrier of the stratum corneum through the puncture ability, and control the delivery dose for treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA). By 3D printing process, the sizes and morphologies of MNs is able to be, easily, architected. The MIOs were embedded into the tip of MNs which can deliver Mx as well as generate mild heating for hair growth, which is potentially attributed by the expansion of hair follicle and drug penetration. Compared to the mice without any treatments, the hair density of mice exhibited an 800% improvement after being treated by MNs with MF at 10-days post-treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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16 pages, 4885 KiB  
Article
Performance Enhancement of Vanadium Redox Flow Battery by Treated Carbon Felt Electrodes of Polyacrylonitrile using Atmospheric Pressure Plasma
by Chien-Hong Lin, Yu-De Zhuang, Ding-Guey Tsai, Hwa-Jou Wei and Ting-Yu Liu
Polymers 2020, 12(6), 1372; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12061372 - 18 Jun 2020
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3490
Abstract
A high-performance carbon felt electrode for all-vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) systems is prepared via low-temperature atmospheric pressure plasma treatment in air to improve the hydrophilicity and surface area of bare carbon felt of polyacrylonitrile and increase the contact potential between vanadium ions, [...] Read more.
A high-performance carbon felt electrode for all-vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) systems is prepared via low-temperature atmospheric pressure plasma treatment in air to improve the hydrophilicity and surface area of bare carbon felt of polyacrylonitrile and increase the contact potential between vanadium ions, so as to reduce the overpotential generated by the electrochemical reaction gap. Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area of the modified carbon felt is, significantly, five times higher than that of the pristine felt. The modified carbon felt exhibits higher energy efficiency (EE) and voltage efficiency (VE) in a single cell VRFB test at the constant current density of 160 mA cm−2, and also maintains good performance at low temperatures. Moreover, the cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis results show that the resistance between electrolyte and carbon felt electrode decreased. As a result, owing to the increased reactivity of the vanadium ion on the treated carbon felt, the efficiency of the VRFB with the plasma-modified carbon felt is much higher and demonstrates better capacity under a 100-cycle constant current charge-discharge test. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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16 pages, 4075 KiB  
Article
Improvement of the Heat-Dissipating Performance of Powder Coating with Graphene
by Fei Kung and Ming-Chien Yang
Polymers 2020, 12(6), 1321; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12061321 - 10 Jun 2020
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3637
Abstract
In this study, the epoxy powder was blended with graphene to improve its thermal conductivity and heat dissipation efficiency. The thermal conductivity of the graphene-loaded coating was increased by 167 folds. In addition, the emissivity of the graphene-loaded coating was 0.88. The epoxy [...] Read more.
In this study, the epoxy powder was blended with graphene to improve its thermal conductivity and heat dissipation efficiency. The thermal conductivity of the graphene-loaded coating was increased by 167 folds. In addition, the emissivity of the graphene-loaded coating was 0.88. The epoxy powder was further coated on aluminum plate through powder coating process in order to study the effect on the performance of heat dissipation. In the case of natural convective heat transfer, the surface temperature of the graphene-loaded coated aluminum plate was 96.7 °C, which was 27.4 °C lower than that of bare aluminum plate (124.1 °C) at a heat flux of 16 W. In the case of forced convective heat transfer, the surface temperature decreased from 77.8 and 68.3 °C for a heat flux of 16 W. The decrease in temperature can be attributed to the thermal radiation. These results show that the addition of graphene nanoparticles in the coating can increase the emissivity of the aluminum plate and thus improving the heat dissipation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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13 pages, 2802 KiB  
Article
Electrically Conductive Nanocomposites Composed of Styrene–Acrylonitrile Copolymer and rGO via Free-Radical Polymerization
by Eun Bin Ko, Dong-Eun Lee and Keun-Byoung Yoon
Polymers 2020, 12(6), 1221; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12061221 - 27 May 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2598
Abstract
The polymerizable reduced graphene oxide (mRGO) grafted styrene–acrylonitrile copolymer composites were prepared via free radical polymerization. The graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was reacted with 3-(tri-methoxysilyl)propylmethacrylate (MPS) and used as monomer to graft styrene and acrylonitrile on its surface. The [...] Read more.
The polymerizable reduced graphene oxide (mRGO) grafted styrene–acrylonitrile copolymer composites were prepared via free radical polymerization. The graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was reacted with 3-(tri-methoxysilyl)propylmethacrylate (MPS) and used as monomer to graft styrene and acrylonitrile on its surface. The successful modification and reduction of GO was confirmed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), Raman and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The mRGO was prepared using chemical and solvothermal reduction methods. The effect of the reduction method on the composite properties and nanosheet distribution in the polymer matrix was studied. The thermal stability, electrical conductivity and morphology of nanocomposites were studied. The electrical conductivity of the obtained nanocomposite was very high at 0.7 S/m. This facile free radical polymerization provides a convenient route to achieve excellent dispersion and electrically conductive polymers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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14 pages, 4672 KiB  
Article
The Ophthalmic Performance of Hydrogel Contact Lenses Loaded with Silicone Nanoparticles
by Nguyen-Phuong-Dung Tran and Ming-Chien Yang
Polymers 2020, 12(5), 1128; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12051128 - 14 May 2020
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5327
Abstract
In this study, silicone nanoparticles (SiNPs) were prepared from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) via the sol-gel process. The resultant SiNPs were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). These SiNPs were then blended [...] Read more.
In this study, silicone nanoparticles (SiNPs) were prepared from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) via the sol-gel process. The resultant SiNPs were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). These SiNPs were then blended with 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA) and 1-vinyl-2-pyrrolidinone (NVP) before polymerizing into hydrogel contact lenses. All hydrogels were subject to characterization, including equilibrium water content (EWC), contact angle, and oxygen permeability (Dk). The average diameter of SiNPs was 330 nm. The results indicated that, with the increase of SiNPs content, the oxygen permeability increased, while the EWC was affected insignificantly. The maximum oxygen permeability attained was 71 barrer for HEMA-NVP lens containing 1.2 wt% of SiNPs with an EWC of 73%. These results demonstrate that by loading a small amount of SiNPs, the Dk of conventional hydrogel lenses can be improved greatly. This approach would be a new method to produce oxygen-permeable contact lenses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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15 pages, 2423 KiB  
Article
Preparation and Application of Organic-Inorganic Nanocomposite Materials in Stretched Organic Thin Film Transistors
by Yang-Yen Yu and Cheng-Huai Yang
Polymers 2020, 12(5), 1058; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12051058 - 05 May 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2675
Abstract
High-transparency soluble polyimide with COOH and fluorine functional groups and TiO2-SiO2 composite inorganic nanoparticles with high dielectric constants were synthesized in this study. The polyimide and inorganic composite nanoparticles were further applied in the preparation of organic-inorganic hybrid high dielectric [...] Read more.
High-transparency soluble polyimide with COOH and fluorine functional groups and TiO2-SiO2 composite inorganic nanoparticles with high dielectric constants were synthesized in this study. The polyimide and inorganic composite nanoparticles were further applied in the preparation of organic-inorganic hybrid high dielectric materials as the gate dielectric for a stretchable transistor. The optimal ratio of organic and inorganic components in the hybrid films was investigated. In addition, Jeffamine D2000 and polyurethane were added to the gate dielectric to improve the tensile properties of the organic thin film transistor (OTFT) device. PffBT4T-2OD was used as the semiconductor layer material and indium gallium liquid alloy as the upper electrode. Electrical property analysis demonstrated that the mobility could reach 0.242 cm2·V−1·s−1 at an inorganic content of 30 wt.%, and the switching current ratio was 9.04 × 103. After Jeffamine D2000 and polyurethane additives were added, the mobility and switching current could be increased to 0.817 cm2·V−1·s−1 and 4.27 × 105 for Jeffamine D2000 and 0.562 cm2·V−1·s−1 and 2.04 × 105 for polyurethane, respectively. Additives also improved the respective mechanical properties. The stretching test indicated that the addition of polyurethane allowed the OTFT device to be stretched to 50%, and the electrical properties could be maintained after stretching 150 cycles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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15 pages, 4776 KiB  
Article
Cartilage Tissue-Mimetic Pellets with Multifunctional Magnetic Hyaluronic Acid-Graft-Amphiphilic Gelatin Microcapsules for Chondrogenic Stimulation
by Kai-Ting Hou, Ting-Yu Liu, Min-Yu Chiang, Chun-Yu Chen, Shwu-Jen Chang and San-Yuan Chen
Polymers 2020, 12(4), 785; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12040785 - 02 Apr 2020
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2765
Abstract
Articular cartilage defect is a common disorder caused by sustained mechanical stress. Owing to its nature of avascular, cartilage had less reconstruction ability so there is always a need for other repair strategies. In this study, we proposed tissue-mimetic pellets composed of chondrocytes [...] Read more.
Articular cartilage defect is a common disorder caused by sustained mechanical stress. Owing to its nature of avascular, cartilage had less reconstruction ability so there is always a need for other repair strategies. In this study, we proposed tissue-mimetic pellets composed of chondrocytes and hyaluronic acid-graft-amphiphilic gelatin microcapsules (HA-AGMCs) to serve as biomimetic chondrocyte extracellular matrix (ECM) environments. The multifunctional HA-AGMC with specific targeting on CD44 receptors provides excellent structural stability and demonstrates high cell viability even in the center of pellets after 14 days culture. Furthermore, with superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIOs) in the microcapsule shell of HA-AGMCs, it not only showed sound cell guiding ability but also induced two physical stimulations of static magnetic field(S) and magnet-derived shear stress (MF) on chondrogenic regeneration. Cartilage tissue-specific gene expressions of Col II and SOX9 were upregulated in the present of HA-AGMC in the early stage, and HA-AGMC+MF+S held the highest chondrogenic commitments throughout the study. Additionally, cartilage tissue-mimetic pellets with magnetic stimulation can stimulate chondrogenesis and sGAG synthesis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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13 pages, 2121 KiB  
Article
Effect of Type and Concentration of Nanoclay on the Mechanical and Physicochemical Properties of Bis-GMA/TTEGDMA Dental Resins
by J. J. Encalada-Alayola, Y. Veranes-Pantoja, J. A. Uribe-Calderón, J. V. Cauich-Rodríguez and J. M. Cervantes-Uc
Polymers 2020, 12(3), 601; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12030601 - 06 Mar 2020
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2983
Abstract
Bis-GMA/TTEGDMA-based resin composites were prepared with two different types of nanoclays: an organically modified laminar clay (Cloisite® 30B, montmorillonite, MMT) and a microfibrous clay (palygorskite, PLG). Their physicochemical and mechanical properties were then determined. Both MMT and PLG nanoclays were added into [...] Read more.
Bis-GMA/TTEGDMA-based resin composites were prepared with two different types of nanoclays: an organically modified laminar clay (Cloisite® 30B, montmorillonite, MMT) and a microfibrous clay (palygorskite, PLG). Their physicochemical and mechanical properties were then determined. Both MMT and PLG nanoclays were added into monomer mixture (1:1 ratio) at different loading levels (0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 wt.%), and the resulting composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and mechanical testing (bending and compressive properties). Thermal properties, depth of cure and water absorption were not greatly affected by the type of nanoclay, while the mechanical properties of dental resin composites depended on both the variety and concentration of nanoclay. In this regard, composites containing MMT displayed higher mechanical strength (both flexural and compression) than those resins prepared with PLG due to a poor nanoclay dispersion as revealed by SEM. Solubility of the composites was dependent not only on nanoclay-type but also the mineral concentration. Dental composites fulfilled the minimum depth cure and solubility criteria set by the ISO 4049 standard. In contrast, the minimum bending strength (50 MPa) established by the international standard was only satisfied by the dental resins containing MMT. Based on these results, composites containing either MMT or PLG (at low filler contents) are potentially suitable for use in dental restorative resins, although those prepared with MMT displayed better results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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19 pages, 5574 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Carbon Dioxide-Based Urethane Acrylate Composites for Sealers of Root Canal Obturation
by Hao-Hueng Chang, Yi-Ting Tseng, Sheng-Wun Huang, Yi-Fang Kuo, Chun-Liang Yeh, Chien-Hsin Wu, Ying-Chi Huang, Ru-Jong Jeng, Jiang-Jen Lin and Chun-Pin Lin
Polymers 2020, 12(2), 482; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12020482 - 21 Feb 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3122
Abstract
A new root canal sealer was developed based on urethane acrylates using polycarbonate polyol (PCPO), a macrodiol prepared in the consumption of carbon dioxide as feedstock. The superior mechanical properties and biostability nature of PCPO-based urethane acrylates were then co-crosslinked with a difunctional [...] Read more.
A new root canal sealer was developed based on urethane acrylates using polycarbonate polyol (PCPO), a macrodiol prepared in the consumption of carbon dioxide as feedstock. The superior mechanical properties and biostability nature of PCPO-based urethane acrylates were then co-crosslinked with a difunctional monomer of tripropylene glycol diarylate (TPGDA) as sealers for resin matrix. Moreover, nanoscale silicate platelets (NSPs) immobilized with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and/or zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were introduced to enhance the antibacterial effect for the sealers. The biocompatibility and the antibacterial effect were investigated by Alamar blue assay and LDH assay. In addition, the antibacterial efficiency was performed by using Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) as microbial response evaluation. These results demonstrate that the PCPO-based urethane acrylates with 50 ppm of both AgNP and ZnONP immobilized on silicate platelets, i.e., Ag/ZnO@NSP, exhibited great potential as an antibacterial composite for the sealer of root canal obturation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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16 pages, 7208 KiB  
Article
Effect of CNTs Additives on the Energy Balance of Carbon/Epoxy Nanocomposites during Dynamic Compression Test
by Manel Chihi, Mostapha Tarfaoui, Chokri Bouraoui and Ahmed El Moumen
Polymers 2020, 12(1), 194; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12010194 - 11 Jan 2020
Cited by 84 | Viewed by 2920
Abstract
Previous research has shown that nanocomposites show not only enhancements in mechanical properties (stiffness, fracture toughness) but also possess remarkable energy absorption characteristics. However, the potential of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as nanofiller in reinforced epoxy composites like glass fiber-reinforced polymers (GFRP) or carbon [...] Read more.
Previous research has shown that nanocomposites show not only enhancements in mechanical properties (stiffness, fracture toughness) but also possess remarkable energy absorption characteristics. However, the potential of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as nanofiller in reinforced epoxy composites like glass fiber-reinforced polymers (GFRP) or carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP) under dynamic testing is still underdeveloped. The goal of this study is to investigate the effect of integrating nanofillers such as CNTs into the epoxy matrix of carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites (CFRP) on their dynamic energy absorption potential under impact. An out-of-plane compressive test at high strain rates was performed using a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB), and the results were analyzed to study the effect of changing the concentration of CNTs on the energy absorption properties of the nanocomposites. A strong correlation between strain rates and CNT mass fractions was found out, showing that an increase in percentage of CNTs could enhance the dynamic properties and energy absorption capabilities of fiber-reinforced composites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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18 pages, 4757 KiB  
Article
Transparent Polyimide/Organoclay Nanocomposite Films Containing Different Diamine Monomers
by Hyeon Il Shin and Jin-Hae Chang
Polymers 2020, 12(1), 135; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12010135 - 06 Jan 2020
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3422
Abstract
Poly (amic acid) s (PAAs) were synthesized using 4,4′-(hexafluoroisopropyl-idene) diphthalic anhydride (6FDA) and two types of diamines—bis(3-aminophenyl) sulfone (BAS) and bis(3-amino-4-hydroxyphenyl) sulfone (BAS-OH). Two series of transparent polyimide (PI) hybrid films were synthesized by solution intercalation polymerization and thermal imidization using various concentrations [...] Read more.
Poly (amic acid) s (PAAs) were synthesized using 4,4′-(hexafluoroisopropyl-idene) diphthalic anhydride (6FDA) and two types of diamines—bis(3-aminophenyl) sulfone (BAS) and bis(3-amino-4-hydroxyphenyl) sulfone (BAS-OH). Two series of transparent polyimide (PI) hybrid films were synthesized by solution intercalation polymerization and thermal imidization using various concentrations (from 0 to 1 wt%) of organically modified clay Cloisite 30B in PAA solution. The thermo-mechanical properties, morphology, and optical transparency of the hybrid films were observed. The transmission electronic microscopy (TEM) results showed that some of the clays were agglomerated, but most of them showed dispersed nanoscale clay. The effects of -OH groups on the properties of the two PI hybrids synthesized using BAS and BAS-OH monomers were compared. The BAS PI hybrids were superior to the BAS-OH PI hybrids in terms of thermal stability and optical transparency, but the BAS-OH PI hybrids exhibited higher glass transition temperatures (Tg) and mechanical properties. Analysis of the thermal properties and tensile strength showed that the highest critical concentration of organoclay was 0.50 wt%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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17 pages, 4187 KiB  
Article
The Electrochemical Oxidation of Hydroquinone and Catechol through a Novel Poly-geminal Dicationic Ionic Liquid (PGDIL)–TiO2 Composite Film Electrode
by Yanni Guo, Deliang He, Aomei Xie, Wei Qu, Yining Tang, Lei Zhou and Rilong Zhu
Polymers 2019, 11(11), 1907; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym11111907 - 19 Nov 2019
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 4125
Abstract
A novel poly-geminal dicationic ionic liquid (PGDIL)-TiO2/Au composite film electrode was successfully prepared by electrochemical polymerization of 1,4-bis(3-(m-aminobenzyl)imidazol-1-yl)butane bis(hexafluorinephosphate) containing polymerizable anilino groups in the electrolyte containing nano-TiO2. The basic properties of PGDIL–TiO2/Au composite films were studied [...] Read more.
A novel poly-geminal dicationic ionic liquid (PGDIL)-TiO2/Au composite film electrode was successfully prepared by electrochemical polymerization of 1,4-bis(3-(m-aminobenzyl)imidazol-1-yl)butane bis(hexafluorinephosphate) containing polymerizable anilino groups in the electrolyte containing nano-TiO2. The basic properties of PGDIL–TiO2/Au composite films were studied by SEM, cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and differential pulse voltammetry. The SEM results revealed that the PGDIL–TiO2 powder has a more uniform and smaller particle size than the PGDIL. The cyclic voltammetry results showed that the catalytic effect on electrochemical oxidation of hydroquinone and catechol of the PGDIL–TiO2 electrode is the best, yet the Rct of PGDIL–TiO2 electrode is higher than that of PGDIL and TiO2 electrode, which is caused by the synergistic effect between TiO2 and PGDIL. The PGDIL–TiO2/Au composite electrode presents a good enhancement effect on the reversible electrochemical oxidation of hydroquinone and catechol, and differential pulse voltammetry tests of the hydroquinone and catechol in a certain concentration range revealed that the PGDIL–TiO2/Au electrode enables a high sensitivity to the differentiation and detection of hydroquinone and catechol. Furthermore, the electrochemical catalytic mechanism of the PGDIL–TiO2/Au electrode was studied. It was found that the recombination of TiO2 improved the reversibility and activity of the PGDIL–TiO2/Au electrode for the electrocatalytic reaction of HQ and CC. The PGDIL–TiO2/Au electrode is also expected to be used for catalytic oxidation and detection of other organic pollutants containing –OH groups. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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12 pages, 35049 KiB  
Article
Ultra-Sensitive Piezo-Resistive Sensors Constructed with Reduced Graphene Oxide/Polyolefin Elastomer (RGO/POE) Nanofiber Aerogels
by Weibing Zhong, Haiqing Jiang, Liyan Yang, Ashish Yadav, Xincheng Ding, Yuanli Chen, Mufang Li, Gang Sun and Dong Wang
Polymers 2019, 11(11), 1883; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym11111883 - 14 Nov 2019
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3336
Abstract
Flexible wearable pressure sensors have received extensive attention in recent years because of the promising application potentials in health management, humanoid robots, and human machine interfaces. Among the many sensory performances, the high sensitivity is an essential requirement for the practical use of [...] Read more.
Flexible wearable pressure sensors have received extensive attention in recent years because of the promising application potentials in health management, humanoid robots, and human machine interfaces. Among the many sensory performances, the high sensitivity is an essential requirement for the practical use of flexible sensors. Therefore, numerous research studies are devoted to improving the sensitivity of the flexible pressure sensors. The fiber assemblies are recognized as an ideal substrate for a highly sensitive piezoresistive sensor because its three-dimensional porous structure can be easily compressed and can provide high interconnection possibilities of the conductive component. Moreover, it is expected to achieve high sensitivity by raising the porosity of the fiber assemblies. In this paper, the three-dimensional reduced graphene oxide/polyolefin elastomer (RGO/POE) nanofiber composite aerogels were prepared by chemical reducing the graphene oxide (GO)/POE nanofiber composite aerogels, which were obtained by freeze drying the mixture of the GO aqueous solution and the POE nanofiber suspension. It was found that the volumetric shrinkage of thermoplastic POE nanofibers during the reduction process enhanced the compression mechanical strength of the composite aerogel, while decreasing its sensitivity. Therefore, the composite aerogels with varying POE nanofiber usage were prepared to balance the sensitivity and working pressure range. The results indicated that the composite aerogel with POE nanofiber/RGO proportion of 3:3 was the optimal sample, which exhibits high sensitivity (ca. 223 kPa−1) and working pressure ranging from 0 to 17.7 kPa. In addition, the composite aerogel showed strong stability when it is either compressed with different frequencies or reversibly compressed and released 5000 times. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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12 pages, 10394 KiB  
Article
Structural Design of Three-Dimensional Graphene/Nano Filler (Al2O3, BN, or TiO2) Resins and Their Application to Electrically Conductive Adhesives
by Chia-Hsin Zhang, Chia-Hung Huang and Wei-Ren Liu
Polymers 2019, 11(10), 1713; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym11101713 - 18 Oct 2019
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2639
Abstract
In this study, we designed a three-dimensional structure of electrically conductive adhesives (ECAs) by adding three different kinds of nano filler, including BN, TiO2, and Al2O3 particles, into a few-layered graphene (FLG)/polymer composite to avoid FLG aggregation. Three [...] Read more.
In this study, we designed a three-dimensional structure of electrically conductive adhesives (ECAs) by adding three different kinds of nano filler, including BN, TiO2, and Al2O3 particles, into a few-layered graphene (FLG)/polymer composite to avoid FLG aggregation. Three different lateral sizes of FLG (FLG3, FLG8, and FLG20) were obtained from graphite (G3, G8, and G20) by a green, facile, low-cost, and scalable jet cavitation process. The corresponding characterizations, such as Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), verified the successful preparation of graphene flakes. Based on the results of four-point probe measurements, FLG20 demonstrated the lowest sheet resistance value of ~0.021 Ω/■. The optimized ECAs’ composition was a 60% solid content of FLG20 with the addition 2 wt.% of Al2O3. The sheet resistance value was as low as 51.8 Ω/■, which was a reduction of 73% compared to that of pristine FLG/polymer. These results indicate that this method not only paves the way for the cheaper and safer production of graphene, but also holds great potential for applications in energy-related technologies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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13 pages, 2410 KiB  
Article
Using Methacryl-Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane as the Thermal Stabilizer and Plasticizer in Poly(vinyl chloride) Nanocomposites
by Yu-Kai Wang, Fang-Chang Tsai, Chao-Chen Ma, Min-Ling Wang and Shiao-Wei Kuo
Polymers 2019, 11(10), 1711; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym11101711 - 18 Oct 2019
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4110
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the influence of methacryl-functionalized polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (MA-POSS) nanoparticles as a plasticizer and thermal stabilizer for a poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) homopolymer and for a poly(vinyl chloride)/dissononyl cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate (PVC/DINCH) binary blend system. The PVC and the PVC/DINCH blend both [...] Read more.
In this study, we investigated the influence of methacryl-functionalized polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (MA-POSS) nanoparticles as a plasticizer and thermal stabilizer for a poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) homopolymer and for a poly(vinyl chloride)/dissononyl cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate (PVC/DINCH) binary blend system. The PVC and the PVC/DINCH blend both became flexible, with decreases in their glass transition temperatures and increases in their thermal decomposition temperatures, upon an increase in MA-POSS content, the result of hydrogen bonding between the C=O groups of MA-POSS and the H–CCl units of the PVC, as determined using infrared spectroscopy. Furthermore, the first thermal decomposition temperature of the pure PVC, due to the emission of HCl, increased from 290 to 306 °C, that is, the MA-POSS nanoparticles had a retarding effect on the decomposition of the PVC matrix. In tensile tests, all the PVC/DINCH/MA-POSS ternary blends were transparent and displayed flexibility, but their modulus and tensile strength both decreased, while their elongation properties increased, upon an increase in MA-POSS concentration, both before and after thermal annealing. In contrast, the elongation decreased, but the modulus and tensile strength increased, after thermal annealing at 100 °C for 7 days. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymer Nanocomposites)
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