Interface / Interphase in Polymer Nanocomposites

Significant research has been done in polymeric nanocomposites and progress has been made in understanding nanofiller-polymer interface and interphase and their relation to nanocomposite properties.  However, the information is scattered in many different publication media.  This is the first book that consolidates the current knowledge on understanding, characterization and tailoring interfacial interactions between nanofillers and polymers by bringing together leading researchers and experts in this field to present their cutting edge research. 

Eleven chapters authored by senior subject specialists cover topics including:

• Thermodynamic mechanisms governing nanofiller dispersion, engineering of interphase with nanofillers
• Role of interphase in governing the mechanical, electrical, thermal and other functional properties of nanocomposites, characterization and modelling of the interphase
• Effects of crystallization on the interface, chemical and physical techniques for surface modification of nanocellulose reinforcements
• Electro-micromechanical and nanoindentation techniques for interface evaluation, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to quantify filler-matrix adhesion and nanocomposite mechanical properties.

Anil Netravali is currently the Jean and Douglas McLean Professor in Fiber Science & Apparel Design, Cornell University. His main research is in the field of fiber reinforced composites and green materials and processes. In the past few years, his research group has developed green resins and adhesives from a variety of proteins and starches that have excellent mechanical properties. Dr. Netravali has written over 110 refereed papers and over 20 book chapters.  He has also edited 2 books. He has presented his research at several conferences all over the world and several of them as Keynote addresses as well as plenary and invited lectures.

Kashmiri Lal Mittal was employed by the IBM Corporation from 1972 through 1993. Currently, he is teaching and consulting worldwide in the broad areas of adhesion as well as surface cleaning. He has received numerous awards and honors including the title of doctor honoris causa from Maria Curie-Skodowska University, Lublin, Poland. He is the editor of more than 120 books dealing with adhesion measurement, adhesion of polymeric coatings, polymer surfaces, adhesive joints, adhesion promoters, thin films, polyimides, surface modification,surface cleaning, and surfactants. Dr. Mittal is also the Founding Editor of the journal Reviews of Adhesion and Adhesives.