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\nHIGHLIGHTSPolymer nanocomposites are increasingly used in insulation applications for enhanced electrical properties. However, there are intricate parameters that control the properties of the polymer, and hence investigations are required. This paper attempts to correlate the electrical properties of Epoxy/Organically modified montmorillonite clay composites with the free volume resulting from the incorporation of the Organically modified montmorillonite clay filler of 2, 5, and 7 weight per cent (wt.%). Positron annihilation spectroscopy has been used to compute the fractional free volume and free volume. The free volume percentage is observed to increase with the incorporation of 2 and 5 wt.% and reduces at 7 wt.%. A similar trend is observed in the average size of free volume. The filler increases the AC electric breakdown strength by 20%, arc resistance by 5%, and comparative tracking index by 10% at 5 wt.%. Thermal conductivity is seen to increase marginally with the filler. The surfaces of the composites are hydrophilic at 2 and 7 wt.%, and at 5 wt.%, it is hydrophobic. Longer durations of water diffusion render the surfaces of the nanocomposites hydrophobic. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy investigations reveal broadening of peak, increase in peak intensity and stretching of Si–O–Si bonds at 5 wt.% of filler due to exfoliation. An attempt has been made to understand the results of electrical parameters based on the results of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy and thermal conductivity. Water diffusion is minimal at 5 wt.% of OMMT.Highest CTI of 588 is achieved at 5 wt.%.Arc resistance of 400 s is achieved at 5 wt.%. OMMT.Proof tracking is higher at 5 wt.% of OMMT.Surface is hydrophobic at 5 wt.% OMMT.Water diffusion is minimal at 5 wt.% of OMMT.Highest CTI of 588 is achieved at 5 wt.%.Arc resistance of 400 s is achieved at 5 wt.%. OMMT.Proof tracking is higher at 5 wt.% of OMMT.Surface is hydrophobic at 5 wt.% OMMT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer nanocomposites are a class of composite materials containing polymer continuous phase as matrix and inorganic nanoparticles as fillers. Combining the advantages of both polymer and nanofillers, polymer nanocomposites can yield some desirable functionalities that cannot be achieved by the individual components, thus exhibiting tremendous potential for a variety of applications. However, their performances markedly depend on the dispersion and distribution of nanofillers in the polymer matrix. Recently, in situ emulsion polymerization has been demonstrated to be a powerful approach for the preparation of multifunctional polymer nanocomposites with good dispersion and homogeneous distribution of nanofillers. In this review, the fundamentals of polymer nanocomposites and their preparation strategies are briefly discussed, and then are comprehensively summarized recent advances in the design, preparation, functionalization, and applications of polymer nanocomposites via in situ emulsion polymerization. The particular focus is placed on the strategies for achieving homogeneous and good dispersion of nanofillers within polymer matrixes. Moreover, the current challenges and future opportunities of in situ emulsion polymerization to polymer nanocomposites are discussed to motivate future contributions and explore new possibilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high speed development of industries such as new energy power, medical instruments, under¬ground exploration, and high power pulses are demanding more and more dielectric capacitors. Polymer based film capacitors are attracting attention for their high power density, high breakdown field strength, high reliability, low loss, and small size. However, the low energy density due to the low dielectric constant of the polymer itself has limited IS application n high-end fields. And polymer as an effective way to enhance the energy density by compounding with other organic or inorganic materials in different ways. This paper introduces the current research status of polymer based film capacitors compounded with inorganic materials, analyzes the advantages and shortcomings of different compounding methods, and discusses the future development prospects of polymer based film capacitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, nanocomposite membranes have emerged as a focal point in the pervaporation process, garnering significant attention. The integration of various nanostructures into mixed matrix membranes has been extensively explored for their efficacy in enhancing separation capabilities by influencing membrane morphology. This review delves into the utilization of inorganic nanostructures, known for their superior properties and widespread availability, in pervaporation membrane applications. This study evaluates research endeavors employing these materials in pervaporation, scrutinizes outcomes, and identifies prevailing challenges. This comprehensive analysis aims to shed light on the potential and limitations of inorganic nanostructures in advancing pervaporation membrane technology. Furthermore, this review addresses challenges and future directions, aiming to guide researchers towards the development of next-generation MMMs for enhanced pervaporation applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Compared with commercial lithium batteries with liquid electrolytes, all‐solid‐state lithium batteries (ASSLBs) possess the advantages of higher safety, better electrochemical stability, higher energy density, and longer cycle life; therefore, ASSLBs have been identified as promising candidates for next‐generation safe and stable high‐energy‐storage devices. The design and fabrication of solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) are vital for the future commercialization of ASSLBs. Among various SSEs, solid polymer composite electrolytes (SPCEs) consisting of inorganic nanofillers and polymer matrix have shown great application prospects in the practice of ASSLBs. The incorporation of inorganic nanofillers into the polymer matrix has been considered as a crucial method to achieve high ionic conductivity for SPCE. In this review, the mechanisms of Li+ transport variation caused by incorporating inorganic nanofillers into the polymer matrix are discussed in detail. On the basis of the recent progress, the respective contributions of polymer chains, passive ceramic nanofillers, and active ceramic nanofillers in affecting the Li+ transport process of SPCE are reviewed systematically. The inherent relationship between the morphological characteristics of inorganic nanofillers and the ionic conductivity of the resultant SPCE is discussed. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives for developing high‐performance SPCE are put forward. This review aims to provide possible strategies for the further improvement of ionic conductivity in inorganic nanoscale filler‐reinforced SPCE and highlight their inspiration for future research directions.

Compared with commercial lithium batteries with liquid electrolytes, all‐solid‐state lithium batteries (ASSLBs) possess the advantages of higher safety, better electrochemical stability, higher energy density, and longer cycle life; therefore, ASSLBs have been identified as promising candidates for next‐generation safe and stable high‐energy‐storage devices. The design and fabrication of solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) are vital for the future commercialization of ASSLBs. Among various SSEs, solid polymer composite electrolytes (SPCEs) consisting of inorganic nanofillers and polymer matrix have shown great application prospects in the practice of ASSLBs. The incorporation of inorganic nanofillers into the polymer matrix has been considered as a crucial method to achieve high ionic conductivity for SPCE. In this review, the mechanisms of Li+ transport variation caused by incorporating inorganic nanofillers into the polymer matrix are discussed in detail. On the basis of the recent progress, the respective contributions of polymer chains, passive ceramic nanofillers, and active ceramic nanofillers in affecting the Li+ transport process of SPCE are reviewed systematically. The inherent relationship between the morphological characteristics of inorganic nanofillers and the ionic conductivity of the resultant SPCE is discussed. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives for developing high‐performance SPCE are put forward. This review aims to provide possible strategies for the further improvement of ionic conductivity in inorganic nanoscale filler‐reinforced SPCE and highlight their inspiration for future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogels have been widely used in water purification. However, there is not much discussion and comparison about the effects of different nanofillers on the reinforcement and adsorption performances of hydrogels, which can be subjected to rapid water flow and possess strong adsorption ability. In this work, polyacrylamide (PAAM)-sodium alginate (SA) interpenetrating polymer network-structured hydrogels were prepared by in situ polymerization. PAAM formed the first flexible network and SA constructed the second rigid network. Three kinds of inorganic nanoparticles including carbon nanotubes (CNTs), nanoclays (NCs), and nanosilicas (NSs) were incorporated into a PAAM-SA matrix via hydrogen bond. The obtained hydrogels exhibited a macroporous structure with low density (≈1.4 g/cm3) and high water content (≈83%). Compared with neat PAAM-SA, the hydrogels with inorganic nanoparticles possessed excellent mechanical strengths and elasticities, and the compression strength of PAAM-SA-NS reached up to 1.3 MPa at ε = 60% by adding only 0.036 g NS in a 30 g polymer matrix. However, CNT was the best filler to improve the adsorption capacity owing to its multi-walled hollow nanostructure, and the adsorption capacity of PAAM-SA-CNT was 1.28 times higher than that of PAAM-SA. The prepared hydrogels can be potential candidates for use as absorbents to treat wastewater.

Progress in materials science is associated with the development of nanomaterials in terms of energy-saving, environmentally friendly, and low-cost methods. Since the use of tributyltin compounds in antifouling coatings was banned in 2003, the search for ecofriendly alternatives has been promoted. Foul-release (FR) nanocoatings have been extensively investigated because of their non-stick, ecological, and economic advantages. Such nanocomposite systems are dynamic non-stick surfaces that deter any fouling attachment through physical anti-adhesion terminology. Instead of biocidal solutions, several functional FR nanocomposite coatings have been developed to counter biofouling and biocorrosion with ecological and ecofriendly effects. Selected inorganic nanofillers have been incorporated because of their enhanced interaction at the filler‐polymer interface for nanocomposites. Metallic nanoparticles and their oxides have also been widely explored because of their unique morphological characteristics and size-dependent, self-cleaning properties. In modeling a novel series of FR nanocoatings, two modes of prevention are combined: chemical inertness and physical microfouling repulsion for maritime navigation applications. Long-term durability and self-cleaning performance are among the advantages of developing effective, stable, and ecofriendly modeling alternatives. This review provides a holistic overview of nano-FR research achievements and describes recent advancements in non-stick marine nanocoatings for ship hulls. This review highlights the key issues of nanocomposite structures and their features in improving the biological activity and surface self-cleaning performance of ship hulls. This review may also open new horizons toward futuristic developments in FR nanocomposites for maritime navigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the rapid expansion of nanotechnology and the increasing range of nanomaterials under production and development, a significant amount of research interest has been dedicated to the innovative exploitations of various inorganic nanomaterials in environmental applications. The incorporation of inorganic nanomaterials as fillers within a polymeric matrix has expanded opportunities to produce a multifunctional nanocomposite membrane that is capable of performing tasks beyond separation alone. The architectures and performances of these nanocomposite membranes have triumphed over polymeric membranes to overcome the underlying conspicuous drawbacks. This review aims to shed more light on the roles of inorganic nanomaterials in advancing the characteristics and separation performance of polymeric ultrafiltration membranes. Inorganic nanofillers such as metal oxides, metals and carbon-based materials are incorporated into polymeric membranes to render the desired properties for ultrafiltration separations. Novel strategies using a wide range of these inorganic nanomaterials have been well explored and established for the manufacturing of membrane with significantly enhanced properties that are highly desired to heighten the separation performances. With the renaissance of this emerging innovative technology, many possible solutions and valuable options can be offered to serve as the primary driver in excelling ultrafiltration membrane technology. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

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• Thermo/pH responsive Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)/sodium alginate hydrogels were prepared. • Cellulose nanofibers (TOCNF) acted as a dispersant to assist the dispersion of inorganic fillers. • The hydrogels were homogeneous and stable with a macro-porous structure. • The compressive strength was enhanced by incorporating organic and inorganic nanofillers. • The hydrogels exhibited reversible temperature dependent on–off fluorescence properties. The incorporation of renewable bio-based materials/eco-friendly inorganic nanofillers into stimuli-responsive hydrogels meets the need for biocompatible and non-toxic functional materials. However, it remains challenging to build a three-dimensional network with enhanced mechanical properties and desired stimuli-responsive performances. In this study, dual stimuli-responsive hydrogels with interpenetrating polymer network structure are fabricated by the crosslinking of N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) 1 1 NIPAM: N-isopropylacrylamide and sodium alginate (SA) 2 2 SA: Sodium alginate. 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-piperidine-1-oxyl-oxidized cellulose nanofibers (TOCNF) 3 3 TOCNF: 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-piperidine-1-oxyl-oxidized cellulose nanofibers derived from energycane bagasse serves as a carrier material for nanosilicas (NS) 4 4 NS: Nanosilicas and nanoclays (NC) 5 5 NC: Nanoclays and the effects of TOCNF, TOCNF/NS and TOCNF/NC on the hydrogels are thoroughly explored. Among these hydrogels, PNIPAM/SA-TOCNF-NS possesses the largest compressive strength of 66.7 kPa and it is 5.65 times higher than that of PNIPAM/SA. The thermo-sensitivity and pH-sensitivity of hydrogels are evidenced by swelling behaviors, optical properties, contact angle measurements and fluorescence tests. PNIPAM/SA-TOCNF exhibits the largest contact angle and the swelling processes for all the hydrogels are well fitted by pseudo-second-order swelling kinetic model. In addition, after incorporating carbon quantum dots, all the hydrogels display temperature dependent on–off fluorescence properties and this process are fully reversible with the heating and cooling cycles. These novel hydrogels with pH and temperature responsive characteristics and remarkable mechanical properties will open the door for interesting applications in smart sensors etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogels have been widely used in water purification. However, there is not much discussion and comparison about the effects of different nanofillers on the reinforcement and adsorption performances of hydrogels, which can be subjected to rapid water flow and possess strong adsorption ability. In this work, polyacrylamide (PAAM)-sodium alginate (SA) interpenetrating polymer network-structured hydrogels were prepared by in situ polymerization. PAAM formed the first flexible network and SA constructed the second rigid network. Three kinds of inorganic nanoparticles including carbon nanotubes (CNTs), nanoclays (NCs), and nanosilicas (NSs) were incorporated into a PAAM-SA matrix via hydrogen bond. The obtained hydrogels exhibited a macroporous structure with low density (≈1.4 g/cm3) and high water content (≈83%). Compared with neat PAAM-SA, the hydrogels with inorganic nanoparticles possessed excellent mechanical strengths and elasticities, and the compression strength of PAAM-SA-NS reached up to 1.3 MPa at ε = 60% by adding only 0.036 g NS in a 30 g polymer matrix. However, CNT was the best filler to improve the adsorption capacity owing to its multi-walled hollow nanostructure, and the adsorption capacity of PAAM-SA-CNT was 1.28 times higher than that of PAAM-SA. The prepared hydrogels can be potential candidates for use as absorbents to treat wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]