Nanocomposites: Preparation, Properties, and Applications

Defined as a multiphase solid material with one, two, or three dimensions of less than 100 nanometers (nm), or structures with nano-scale repetitive intervals between the distinct phases that comprise the material, nanocomposites have over the years become one of the most popular areas of interest for current research and development in nearly all technical disciplines. This article provided a detailed definition of nanocomposites, before delving into in-situ polymerization, solvent-assisted solution blending, and molten or melt homogenization techniques which are the three types of nanocomposites’ preparation. After discussing the mechanical, electrical, flame retardancy, thermal, barrier, and rheological properties of nanocomposites, the study also discussed in detail the numerous applications of nanocomposites which include but not limited to the following: energy storage, civil structures, defence and aerospace, environment remediation, electronics, agriculture and food, automobiles and textiles, as well as biomedical medicine and drugs. The research later concluded by observing that the worldwide production of nanocomposites is estimated to exceed 600,000 tonnes, and is set to cover so many important areas within the next few years.