Conductive Polymer Nanocomposites Enhanced with in situ Formation of 2D Nanoparticles for Structural Sensors and Smart Materials

(a) Sensor used for structural monitoring. (b) Sensor performance during 30 N cyclic loading. (c) Temperature sensor monitored by thermal imaging camera.


Invention Summary:

Conductive thermoplastic polymer matrix nanocomposites enhanced with conductive 2D nanoparticles have applications for structural sensors and smart materials.  However, mixing pre-formed 2D nanoparticles with polymers can lead to agglomeration and poor dispersion of the nanoparticles in the polymer matrix, hindering the commercialization of the nanocomposites.

Researchers from Rutgers University have developed a robust and cost-effective technique to exfoliate one or more layered materials (at least one layered material, when exfoliated to 2D nanoparticles, is conductive) to 2D nanoparticles directly within the molten polymer phase subject to uniform, high shear stresses. It provides good dispersion and distribution of the 2D nanoparticles, as well as strong nanoparticle-polymer interaction, thus forming a conductive polymer nanocomposite with improved mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties.



Market Applications:

  • Infrastructure
  • Automotive
  • Aerospace
  • Healthcare
  • Environmental monitoring

Advantages:

  • Easy and timely fabrication
  • Adjustable thermo & electrical properties       
  • Not limited to single applications

Intellectual Property & Development Status:

Patent pending. Available for licensing and/or research collaboration.

Patent Information: