Nanocomposites
Nanocomposites are a hot topic these days. There are many conferences, articles and books on the subject but what is the real story? Are these materials really so exciting? Why do they show the properties they do and how do they differ from traditional filled plastics? One of the major problems with the nanocomposites area is that most of the people working in the area are not even familiar with traditional composites. What difference does that make? Well, nanocomposites investigators proclaim breakthrough results and then try to explain them based on an incomplete understanding. That generates confusion and misinformation. Many of the results found are entirely predictable and understandable once you know how standard composites work. This seminar compares how nanocomposites and "normal" composites stack up. What are the similarities and differences? The remarkable performances achieved at low filler loadings will be explained along with a comparison of the performance: cost evaluation of standard and nano-fillers. After this seminar you will understand these materials and be able to tell the hype from the hope.
Halloysite clay nanotube 3D rendering showing the hollow core useful for slow release.
- How standard filled polymers behave (to set the scene)
- How nano-composites behave; the similarities and differences
- The benefits of nano-composites (mechanical properties, permeability etc.)
- The disadvantages of nano-composites
- The importance of the interphase
- The influence of the particle size and the high surface area
Benefits of the seminar
- Understand the nano effect
- Know when to use nanocomposites and when to use conventional composites
- Get a handle on the pros and the cons associated with these materials
- Receive information on the history, latest developments and commercial potential
Who should attend?
Compounders, resin producers, academics, students, government funding agencies, automotive, aerospace and other OEMs.