Nature has demonstrated quite elegantly that composite structures can lead to improved mechanical behavior and enhanced functionality via the use of nanofillers. Our interest in this bio-inspired, nanoscale filler approach to high performance materials is the incorporation of responsive, supramolecular reinforcing elements in polymeric composites with the goal of combining superior mechanical behavior that can be tuned with additional functionality, such as sensing and bioactivity. In one approach, a cholesterol-derived diacetylene low molecular gelator has been designed to self-assemble into one-dimensional fibers within an elastomeric matrix. Highlighted in this design strategy is the ability to induce inherent dispersion via molecular-level control of filler assembly and to manufacture these composites via a facile process. Bio-inspired composites were also derived from hierarchical electrospun nanofiber fillers that exhibited interfacially-controlled, mechanical switchability and tunable transport behavior.  The ion- or water-responsive systems have unique applications in therapeutic delivery and chemical/biological protection.

Functional fillers for mechanical enhancement of polymeric systems

248th National Meeting (2014)

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