In this work, a phase-separation process is introduced into polymer/nano-filler materials to enhance composite properties. Specifically, this phase-separation approach is used to tailor dispersion of the fillers within the polymer matrix. This study reports on two nano-fillers, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs). Introducing these nano-fillers into the polymer matrix have been shown to effectively enhance the mechanical, thermal, and structural properties. However, due to limitation in the dispersion of the nano-fillers, aggregates or non-interactive polymer/filler regions exist within the composites imposing limits on the processing of the materials and subsequent optimization of properties. During the phase-separation process, a non-solvent is introduced to the system by design, resulting in a selective size-dependent interaction between the polymer chains and fillers, leading to an enhanced interphase structure-property relationship. Fundamental understanding on the phase-separation process and structure-property relationships in these composites will be reported, including characterization results from X-ray diffraction/scattering, scanning electron microscopy, and thermo-mechanical characterization.

Characterization of non-solvent induced phase separation processing routes to understand interphase development and properties in polymer/nanofiller composites

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.