ABSTRACT
Nanoengineered composites demonstrate distinct properties that are inaccessible with individual components acting alone. This chapter mainly focuses on the advancement in the synthesis and applications of these polymer nanocomposites. Nanomaterials such as boron nitride nanosheet (BNNS), molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), and graphene reinforced with polymers exhibit tremendous potential in tribological applications due to their excellent lubricant and mechanical properties. Incorporation of 0.5 wt.% of BNNS decreases the coefficient of friction and wear rate by 18% and 33.3%, respectively. Composites are suitable for 3D printing as low-viscosity material is formed, resulting in a smooth printing process. Incorporation of carbon nanotubes in the polymer promotes the conductivity of the nerve-related scaffold and improves the nerve cell responses, therefore finding application in tissue engineering. Reinforcement of graphene, BNNS, and MoS2 to the polymers increases Young’s modulus and tensile strength. Thermal conductivity of BNNS-reinforced polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride is increased from ∼0 to 221 W/(m K). A strain sensor is developed using a polyethylene terephthalate substrate and MoS2 nanosheet; it offers better durability and can bear pressures up to 14 MPa. These composites have found application in electronic gadgets and vehicles due to their excellent thermoelectric performance. A wearable thermoelectric nanogenerator is fabricated by the composites of reduced graphene oxide and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate.
