Experiential Learning Topic: -

Real life applications of polymer

nanocomposite

DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

Guided by: Dr. Mohua Chakraborty

Submitted By-:
NAME – MAYANK RAJ
REGD. NO – 2201020886
ROLL NO – CSD22078
GROUP – 5
BRANCH –CSE DS
SEM – 4TH

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GROUP MEMBERS –

SL NAME REGD. NO
NO
1 A SRINIVAS DORA 2201020752
2 PRINCE KUMAR 2201020754
3 GYANA RANJAN 2201020755
SUNDARAY
4 RAHUL KUMAR 2201020779
MISHRA
5 T.CHARLIE PRIYA 2201020832
6 MAYANK RAJ 2201020886
7 ABHISHEK 2201020887
SRIVASTAVA
8 KUMARI ARPANA 2201020945
9 ADARSH SANUJIT 2201020951

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 ABSTRACT

Polymer nanocomposites (PNC) have attracted

significant research and industrial interests due to their
promising potential for versatile applications ranging
from packaging, remediation, energy storage,
electromagnetic (EM) absorption, sensing and
actuation, transportation and safety, defense systems,
thermal flow control, information industry, to novel
catalysts, cosmetics, sports, etc. PNC consist of a
polymer or copolymer having nanoparticles or
nanofillers dispersed in the polymer matrix. These may
be of different shape, structure and geometry (e.g.,
platelets, fibers, spheroids), but at least one dimension
must be in the range of 1–100 nm. They exhibit unique
physicochemical properties that cannot be obtained
with individual components acting alone. For any
particular application a group of properties should be
considered

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 CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION
POLYMER MATRICES
AND FILLERS
ADVANTAGES
DISADVANTAGES
CONCLUSION
REFERENCES

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 Introduction
Nanotechnology is quick growing field of research
having very small dimension particles with
multidimensional of research applications, innovation,
development and industrial activity in the entire field.
It has flooded overall areas such as physics, chemistry,
biology, material science, including engineering. So,
this technology is called as interdisciplinary technology.
Its size or dimension can define application and
concepts. Nanotechnology can change normal life due
to its multilevel applications in the field of energy
production and storage, information technology,
medical applications, equipment’s, food, bases of
equipment and water purification, instrumental,
biomedical field and applications in environmental
issues.
Nanocomposites are classified according to their
construction. For the formation of nanocomposite
different types of nano particles and matrix materials
are used. There are three classes of nanocomposites
according matrix or host material used. They are
Ceramic Matrix Nanocomposites (CMNC), Metal Matrix
Nanocomposites (MMNC) and Polymer Matrix
Nanocomposites (PMNC).
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 Polymer matrices and fillers

The polymer matrix system can be a

thermoplastic
thermoset
elastomer.

Thermoplastics
A thermoplastic polymer will soften when heated above the
glass transition temperature (Tg) and thus can be moulded
into a particular shape upon cooling.
This process is repeatable, which makes thermoplastic
materials reprocessable and recyclable.
Thermosets
Thermosetting plastics are polymer materials which are
liquid or malleable at low temperatures, but which change
irreversibly into an infusible, insoluble polymer network by
curing. Curing is induced by the action of curing agent and
heat or suitable radiation, often under high pressure.
Thermosetting materials become permanently hard through
cross-linking when heated above Tg. Thus thermosetting
polymers cannot be molded by softening. Instead, they must
be fabricated during the crosslinking process.
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Elastomers
Elastomer resins are lightly crosslinked polymer systems and
have properties that lie between thermosets and
thermoplastics.
Polymer/ nanoplates composites
Different types of fillers are utilized, the most common is a
nanoclay material called montmorillonite. Clays, in a natural
state, are hydrophilic while polymers are hydrophobic. To
make the two compatible, the clay’s polarity must be
modified to be more “organic” to interact successfully with
polymers. Additional nanofillers include carbon nanotubes,
graphite platelets, carbon nanofibers, as well as other fillers
being investigated such as synthetic clays, natural fibers
(hemp or flax), and POSS (polyhedral oligomeric
silsesquioxane). Carbon nanotubes, offer superb electrical
and thermal conductivity properties.

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 (a) Polymer/Clay Nanocomposite

(b)Carbon Nanotubes: Molecular and Electronic Properties

From the above two pictures it is illustrated two ways that
polymer can access the surface of all or most of these plates
in such clays (a) and Carbon nanotubes (b) Carbon
Nanotubes: Molecular and Electronic Properties. In
intercalated nanocomposites, the polymer enters the gallery
between the layers of clay and the clay layers maintain their
registration and the increase in spacing between. In
exfoliated nanocomposites, individual clay plates become
dispersed in the polymer. Polymer chain conformation and
mobility are changed at this interface. Polymer chains
interact with the clay surface. Giannelis and coworkers
proposed that chains close to the clay interface have lower
free volume than the bulk polymer, and those away from the
clay interface have higher free volume than the bulk polymer.
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 Applications

High Voltage Insulation :-

High voltage insulation is a critical aspect of
electrical engineering, ensuring the safe and efficient
transmission of electricity in various applications ranging
from power distribution to electronics. Traditional insulation
materials often face limitations in withstanding high electrical
stresses, leading to breakdowns and system failures.
However, the emergence of polymer nanocomposites has
revolutionized this field by offering enhanced dielectric
strength, thermal stability, and breakdown resistance.
Through the incorporation of nanofillers into polymer
matrices, these composites exhibit superior insulation
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properties, making them ideal candidates for high voltage
applications. Engineers and researchers continuously explore
nanofiller selection, dispersion techniques, and performance
testing to optimize the performance of these materials. As a
result, polymer nanocomposites are increasingly employed in
power distribution systems, transformers, capacitors, and
other critical components where reliable insulation is
paramount.

WIRES & CABLES:-

Wires and cables serve as lifelines for modern
society, facilitating the transmission of electricity, data, and
communication signals. Comprising conductive materials
encased in insulating layers, they enable the seamless flow of
energy and information across vast distances. From
household wiring to complex network infrastructure, wires
and cables play a crucial role in powering our homes,
businesses, and industries. Advancements in materials
science, including the development of polymer
nanocomposites, continue to enhance their efficiency,
durability, and safety. As technology evolves, so too do the
demands placed on these essential components, driving
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ongoing innovation in their design, manufacture, and
application.

MOTORS & GENERATORS :-

Motors and generators are essential
electromechanical devices that play critical roles in various
industries and applications. Motors convert electrical energy
into mechanical energy, powering everything from industrial
machinery to household appliances. They operate based on
the principle of electromagnetic induction, where the
interaction between a magnetic field and electric current
produces rotational motion. On the other hand, generators
perform the reverse function, converting mechanical energy
into electrical energy. They are vital in power generation
plants, providing electricity to homes, businesses, and entire
communities. Both motors and generators rely on principles
of electromagnetism and efficient design to ensure optimal
performance, making them indispensable components in
modern technology and infrastructure.

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ENERGY STORAGE & SAVINGS:-
Energy storage and savings play pivotal roles in
sustainable development and efficient resource utilization.
Energy storage technologies encompass a diverse range of
solutions, from batteries and capacitors to pumped hydro and
thermal storage systems. These technologies enable the
capture and storage of excess energy generated during
periods of low demand for use during peak hours, thus
mitigating the need for additional power generation and
reducing strain on the grid. By facilitating the integration of
renewable energy sources like solar and wind, energy storage
systems help stabilize the grid and promote the transition
towards cleaner energy. Furthermore, energy savings
initiatives, such as energy-efficient appliances, smart grid
technologies, and building retrofits, contribute to reduced
energy consumption and lower utility bills, benefitting both
consumers and the environment.

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DIELECTRIC MEMS & SENSORS & ACUTATORS:-
Dielectric MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical
Systems) offer a revolutionary approach to sensing and
actuation at the microscale. These devices leverage the
properties of dielectric materials to create highly sensitive
sensors and actuators. Dielectric MEMS sensors detect
changes in electrical fields, pressure, or temperature with
exceptional precision, making them invaluable in various
applications such as medical diagnostics, environmental
monitoring, and industrial automation. On the other hand,
dielectric MEMS actuators utilize electric fields to induce
mechanical motion, enabling precise control and
manipulation in microrobotics, optical systems, and
microfluidics.

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SMART ADAPTIVE DIELECTRIC MATERIALS:-
Smart adaptive dielectric materials are a cutting-edge
class of materials engineered to respond dynamically to
changes in their environment, particularly electrical stimuli.
These materials possess the ability to alter their dielectric
properties in real-time, enabling functionalities such as
tunable capacitance, variable permittivity, and adaptive
insulation. By harnessing the principles of responsive
polymers, nanocomposites, or ferroelectric materials, smart
adaptive dielectrics hold promise for applications in
electronic devices, sensors, actuators, and energy storage
systems .

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 ADVANTAGES:-

Polymer nanocomposites offer a wide array of advantages

across various real-life applications due to their unique
properties derived from the combination of polymers with
nanoscale fillers. Here are some key advantages:
1. Enhanced Mechanical Properties: Incorporating
nanoparticles boosts polymer strength, stiffness, and
toughness, ideal for durable applications in automotive
and aerospace sectors.

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 2. Improved Thermal Stability: Nanoparticles act as heat
barriers, enhancing thermal resilience for electronics,
fire-retardant materials, and automotive components.
3. Increased Barrier Properties: Nanoparticles create
barriers against moisture and gases, valuable for
packaging, coatings, and gas separation membranes.
4. Lightweight: Polymer nanocomposites are lighter yet
maintain structural integrity, crucial for aerospace,
automotive, and sports equipment for improved
performance and fuel efficiency.
5. Tuned Electrical Conductivity: Certain nanoparticles
confer electrical conductivity, beneficial for EMI
shielding, conductive coatings, and flexible electronics
applications.
6. Tailored Optical Properties: Nanoparticles modify
polymer optical properties, valuable for optical devices,
displays, sensors, and packaging materials.
7. Improved Chemical Resistance: Nanoparticles enhance
polymer chemical resistance, suitable for harsh
environments like chemical processing, oil, and marine
applications.
8. Flexibility in Design: Polymer nanocomposites offer
design flexibility through techniques like injection
molding and 3D printing, enabling innovation and
customization across industries.

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 DISADVANTAGES:-

While polymer nanocomposites offer numerous

advantages, they also come with several
disadvantages in real-life applications:

1. Cost: The production of

polymer nanocomposites can
be expensive due to the high
cost of nanomaterials and
specialized processing
techniques, making them less
economically viable for some
applications.

2. Processing Complexity:
Incorporating nanoparticles
into polymer matrices often
requires intricate processing
methods, such as melt
blending or solution mixing, which can be
challenging to scale up for industrial production.
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3. Nanoparticle Dispersion: Achieving uniform
dispersion of nanoparticles within the polymer
matrix is crucial for optimal performance.
However, achieving this uniform dispersion can be
difficult, leading to inconsistencies in material
properties and performance.

4. Mechanical Properties: While polymer

nanocomposites can exhibit enhanced mechanical
properties, such as increased stiffness and
strength, in some cases, they may also suffer from
reduced ductility and toughness, limiting their
applicability in certain load-bearing applications.

CONCLUSION:-
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It has been clearly shown that incorporation
of a low content of nanoscale fillers into
polymers leads to enhancements in
mechanical and physical properties.
Introduction to various nanoscale fillers of
two dimensional, one dimensional and zero
dimensional morphologies used in polymer
nanocomposites has been given in this review
paper. It provides a basic level of
understanding how polymer nanocomposites
are processed using different methods. Also,
the characterization of polymer
nanocomposites has been presented by using
various techniques.

REFERENCES:-
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1.J. Shen, Z Song, X. Qian, F. Yang, F. Kong,
“Nanofillers for papermaking”, Bioresources,
5(3), pp 1328-1331, 2010.
2.R. Coles, M. J. Kirwan, “Food and Beverage
Packaging Technology”, 2nd Edition,
WileyBlackwell, 344 pages, Oxford 2011.

3.M. Lyu, T.G. Choi, ”Research trends in polymer

materials for use in lightweight vehicles”,Int. J.
Precis. Eng. Manuf. 16: 213. 2015.

4.https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/
pii/S2589965119300066

5.Some basic aspects of polymer nanocomposites: A

critical review (sciencedirectassets.com)

6.https://chat.openai.com/c/79baeb7f-b3d4-4395-
ab63-84cf5af63a34

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