Two-dimensional Inorganic Nanomaterials for Conductive Polymer Nanocomposites

Functional, flexible and lightweight products are in high demand for modern technologies ranging from microelectronics to energy storage devices. The majority of polymers are thermal and electrical insulators, which hinder their use in these applications. The conductivity of polymers can be significantly enhanced by the incorporation of conducting inorganic nanoparticles. However, this relies not only on the structure and function of the inorganic particles, but is highly determined by the morphology and dispersion of the nanoparticles, interfacial interactions and fabrication technologies of the composites. This book highlights the synthesis, chemistry and applications of two-dimensional (2D) inorganic nanoplatelets in polymer nanocomposites. Chapters cover technical challenges, such as surface functionalisation, compatibilization, interfacial interaction, dispersion, and manufacturing technologies of the polymer nanocomposites. The book also discusses the applications of these polymer nanocomposites in electronics and energy storage. With contributions from global experts, the book provides a much-needed overview of the field, giving advanced undergraduates, postgraduates and other researchers with a convenient introduction to the topic.

Chris Bowen is Professor of Materials Science at the University of Bath. He has have significant expertise in ferroelectric composites for transducer applications such as sensor, actuators and energy harvesting. This includes expertise the polymer composite design (see front cover), materials modelling, manufacture and characterisation. He has over 200 journal papers in refereed international journals and over 50 conference publications. h-index: 42, i-10 index: 158, >7500 citations (Google Scholar). Journals publications cover a spectrum of disciplines of Materials, Engineering, Physics and Chemistry including Phys. Rev. Lett., Acta Materialia, Energy & Environmental Science, Advanced Energy Materials, Chem. Soc. Rev., J. of Phys. Chem. Lett., and Scientific Reports. He has filed six patents, two of which are with commercial companies (Element Six and Eurocoating).