BACKGROUND
Polymers, molecules composed of repeated subunits, are the building blocks for many materials including synthetic plastics, rubber, and nylon. Polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) are polymers with nanofillers (nanoparticles) dispersed throughout the polymer's matrix. Addition of the nanofillers greatly improves the physical properties of the polymer such as strength, stiffness, dimensional stability, wear resistance, fire retardance, and conductivity. Unfortunately if the nanofillers are not dispersed evenly throughout the thermoplastic these physical benefits are substantially diminished. Conventional methods for dispersion of fillers in polymers include shear-mixing in a polymer melt and dispersion in a solvent, in which the polymer is dissolved; however, these processes involve a number of arduous, time consuming steps (hours to days) that are costly and as well as hazardous.
SUMMARY OF TECHNOLOGY
OSU researchers have developed a method for efficient dispersion and high loading of nanofillers in a thermoplastic polymer matrix. Polymers manufactured from this method possess enhanced physical properties such as improved elastic modulus, strength, and mechanical reinforcement, as well as antibacterial and antistatic characteristics. The process, which is conducted entirely in one chamber to prevent wasted chemicals, can be used to synthesize polyamides (such as nylon 6/6 or nylon 6/10) and polyurethanes.
POTENTIAL AREAS OF APPLICATION
- Nanocomposite powder/pellet raw materials for injection molding
- Polyurethane-based nanocomposites
- Nanofiller-reinforced solar shades and textiles
- Transparent conductive layers for touch screens
- Plastic-based nanocomposite bottles and food containers
- Polyamide-based (nylon 6/6 or nylon 6/10) nanocomposites
- Any medical or biological applications involving polymers
MAIN ADVANTAGES
- Blocks sunlight in plastics
- Synthesizes multiple types of polyurethanes
- Exhibits conductivity in transparent polymer layers
- Possesses antibacterial and antistatic characteristics
- Improves the mechanical strength and durability of polymers
- Decreases chemical waste during polymer-based nanocomposite production
STATE OF DEVELOPMENT
Proof of concept stage.