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Polymers
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Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures
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Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures

A special issue of Polymers (ISSN 2073-4360).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 November 2018) | Viewed by 105257

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. De-Yi Wang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Head of High Performance Polymer Nanocomposites Group, IMDEA Materials Institute, C/Eric Kandel, 2, 28906 Getafe, Madrid, Spain
Interests: high performance polymeric materials; fire retardant materials; functional nanocomposites; fire behaviors and mechanisms
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The 5th International Conference on Multi-Functional Materials and Structures (MFMS 2018) is being developed into one of the most prestigious international events to disseminate edge-cutting achievements on the fundamentals and applications of advanced multi-functional polymers and composites. As an inheritance of successful experience of the previous four MFMS conferences, MFMS 2018 is intended to integrate well-extinguished pioneering scientists and innovation-enriched young researchers, aiming to promote the burst of composite research and development. The main topics of this conference cover advanced and functional materials, composites and applications, bio-based materials, smart and intelligent materials and structures, processing and engineering of materials, fiber-reinforced composites and materials, etc., for specific applications.

The editorial office of the journal Polymers (https://www.mdpi.com/journal/polymers) aims to publish a Special Issue of selected papers related to "Multi-Functional Polymer Composites and Structures", which will undergo a thorough peer-review process.

Prof. Dr. De-Yi Wang
Guest Editor

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Polymers is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Reinforced Polymer Composites
  • Smart Polymers
  • Bio-based Polymers
  • Fire Retardant Polymers
  • Polymer Structure and Processing

Published Papers (22 papers)

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17 pages, 3940 KiB  
Article
Tuning Physical Crosslinks in Hybrid Hydrogels for Network Structure Analysis and Mechanical Reinforcement
by Xue Lv, Chuang Liu, Zhubao Shao and Shulin Sun
Polymers 2019, 11(2), 352; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym11020352 - 18 Feb 2019
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3575
Abstract
Hydrogels with high mechanical strength are needed for a variety of industrial applications. Here, a series of hydrogels was prepared by introducing hybrid particles as hydrophobic association points to toughen the hydrogels. These toughened hydrogels were able to transfer an external mechanical force [...] Read more.
Hydrogels with high mechanical strength are needed for a variety of industrial applications. Here, a series of hydrogels was prepared by introducing hybrid particles as hydrophobic association points to toughen the hydrogels. These toughened hydrogels were able to transfer an external mechanical force via the reorganization of the crosslinking networks. They exhibited an extraordinary mechanical performance, which was the result of the coordination between hydrophobic segments and hybrid particles. Herein, the connection between the dissipated energy of the inner distribution structure (on a small scale) and the mechanical properties (on a large scale) was conducted. Specifically, we inspected hydrogels of latex particles (LPs) with different chain lengths (C4, C12, C18) and studied their inner structural parameters, namely, the relationship between the density and molecular weight of crosslinking points to the mechanical strength and energy dissipation. Favorable traits of the hydrogels included compact internal structures that were basically free from defects and external structures with puncture resistance, high toughness, etc. Based on the experimental results that agreed with the theoretical results, this study provides a profound understanding of the internal structure of hydrogels, and it offers a new idea for the design of high-strength hybrid hydrogels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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13 pages, 4462 KiB  
Article
Effect of Panel Construction on the Ballistic Performance of Multiply 3D through-the-Thickness Angle-Interlock fabrIc Reinforced Composites
by Shengnan Min, Yuan Chai, Yanyan Chu and Xiaogang Chen
Polymers 2019, 11(2), 198; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym11020198 - 24 Jan 2019
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3234
Abstract
This paper studied the ballistic performance of 3D woven angle-interlock fabric reinforced composites with different types of panel construction. Two types of composites P10B and P17C were designed to have the same areal density of around 12 kg/m2 although they both had [...] Read more.
This paper studied the ballistic performance of 3D woven angle-interlock fabric reinforced composites with different types of panel construction. Two types of composites P10B and P17C were designed to have the same areal density of around 12 kg/m2 although they both had different ply areal densities and consisted of different numbers of plies. Non-perforated ballistic impacts were conducted on the two types of panels under the same level of impact energy. Post-mortem examination on the non-perforated panels was conducted through the cross-sectional images, planar projected delamination and 3D damage volume extracted from the non-destructive tests. Three distinctive sections of damage were segmented from the non-perforated panels, each indicating different material failure modes upon impact. Under the same areal density, the coarser composite panel P10B with a larger ply areal density and fewer reinforcement plies would result in less damage. The damage volume of P10B is nearly one-third that of the P17C. The findings are instructive for the design of 3D woven fabric continuously reinforced composites with doubly-curved shapes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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19 pages, 2699 KiB  
Article
Influence of the Characteristics of Expandable Graphite on the Morphology, Thermal Properties, Fire Behaviour and Compression Performance of a Rigid Polyurethane Foam
by Pablo Acuña, Zhi Li, Mercedes Santiago-Calvo, Fernando Villafañe, Miguel Ángel Rodríguez-Perez and De-Yi Wang
Polymers 2019, 11(1), 168; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym11010168 - 18 Jan 2019
Cited by 50 | Viewed by 6320
Abstract
Three types of expandable graphite (EG) differing in particle size and expansion volume, are compared as flame retardant additives to rigid polyurethane foams (RPUFs). In this paper we discuss microstructure, thermal stability, fire behavior, and compression performance. We find that ell size distributions [...] Read more.
Three types of expandable graphite (EG) differing in particle size and expansion volume, are compared as flame retardant additives to rigid polyurethane foams (RPUFs). In this paper we discuss microstructure, thermal stability, fire behavior, and compression performance. We find that ell size distributions were less homogeneous and cell size was reduced. Furthermore, thermal conductivity increased along with EG loading. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that EG only increased residue yield differently. The results indicate that a higher expansion of EG increased the limiting oxygen index (LOI) value, whereas a bigger particle size EG improved the rating of the vertical burning test (UL94). Results from the cone calorimeter test showed that a bigger particle size EG effectively reduced peak of heat release rate (pHRR). Furthermore, a higher expansion, led to a decrease in smoke production (TSP). The combination of both characteristics gives extraordinary results. The physical–mechanical characterization of the EG/RPUF foams revealed that their compression performance decreased slightly, mostly due to the effect of a bigger size EG. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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17 pages, 15499 KiB  
Article
Non-Isothermal Crystallization Behavior of PEEK/Graphene Nanoplatelets Composites from Melt and Glass States
by Ángel Alvaredo, María Isabel Martín, Pere Castell, Roberto Guzmán de Villoria and Juan P. Fernández-Blázquez
Polymers 2019, 11(1), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym11010124 - 12 Jan 2019
Cited by 31 | Viewed by 6451
Abstract
The effect of the graphene nanoplateletets (GNP), at concentration of 1, 5 and 10 wt %, in Poly ether ether ketone (PEEK) composite crystallization from melt and during cold crystallization were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and real time X-ray diffraction experiments. [...] Read more.
The effect of the graphene nanoplateletets (GNP), at concentration of 1, 5 and 10 wt %, in Poly ether ether ketone (PEEK) composite crystallization from melt and during cold crystallization were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and real time X-ray diffraction experiments. DSC results revealed a double effect of GNP: (a) nucleating effect crystallization from melt started at higher temperatures and (b) longer global crystallization time due to the restriction in the polymer chain mobility. This hindered mobility were proved by rheological behavior of nanocomposites, because to the increase of complex viscosity, G′, G″ with the GNP content, as well as the non-Newtonian behavior found in composites with high GNP content. Finally, real time wide and small angle synchrotron X-ray radiation (WAXS/SAXS) X-ray measurements showed that GNP has not affected the orthorhombic phase of PEEK nor the evolution of the crystal phase during the crystallization processes. However, the correlation length of the crystal obtained by WAXS and the long period (L) by SAXS varied depending on the GNP content. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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11 pages, 6088 KiB  
Article
Investigation of Flame Retardant Flexible Polyurethane Foams Containing DOPO Immobilized Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles
by Quanxiao Dong, Keyu Chen, Xiaodong Jin, Shibing Sun, Yingliang Tian, Feng Wang, Peng Liu and Mingshu Yang
Polymers 2019, 11(1), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym11010075 - 05 Jan 2019
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5130
Abstract
In this work, a multi-functional nanoparticle (TiO2-KH570-DOPO) has been successfully synthesized through the attachment of 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO)-methacryloxy propyl trimethoxyl silane on the surface of titanium dioxide (TiO2). Supercritical carbon dioxide was used as the solvent in order to increase [...] Read more.
In this work, a multi-functional nanoparticle (TiO2-KH570-DOPO) has been successfully synthesized through the attachment of 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO)-methacryloxy propyl trimethoxyl silane on the surface of titanium dioxide (TiO2). Supercritical carbon dioxide was used as the solvent in order to increase the grafting level. The chemical structure of TiO2-KH570-DOPO was fully characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectra, thermogravimetric analysis and transmission electron microscopy. The modified TiO2 was incorporated into flexible polyurethane foam (FPUF). The fire performance of FPUF blends was evaluated using microscale combustion calorimetry. Peak heat release rate and total heat release values were reduced from 657.0 W/g and 28.9 kJ/g for neat FPUF sample to 519.2 W/g and 26.8 kJ/g of FPUF specimen containing 10 wt % of TiO2-KH570-DOPO. Analysis of thermal stability and the observation of char formation suggests that TiO2-KH570-DOPO is active in the condensed phase. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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14 pages, 3462 KiB  
Article
Sulfonated Poly(ether ether ketone) Doped with Ammonium Ionic Liquids and Nano-Silicon Dioxide for Polymer Electrolyte Membranes
by Shuguo Qu, Minhui Li, Chenchen Zhang, Yuanyuan Sun, Jihai Duan, Weiwen Wang, Jianlong Li and Xiaojin Li
Polymers 2019, 11(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym11010007 - 21 Dec 2018
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4565
Abstract
Nano-silicon dioxide (SiO2) was incorporated into the matrix of sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK)/ammonium ionic liquid (AIL) membranes by solution casting, with the aim of reducing ionic liquid leaching and any consequent decrease in proton conductivity. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra [...] Read more.
Nano-silicon dioxide (SiO2) was incorporated into the matrix of sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK)/ammonium ionic liquid (AIL) membranes by solution casting, with the aim of reducing ionic liquid leaching and any consequent decrease in proton conductivity. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra results indicate incorporation of the SPEEK matrix with AIL and nano-SiO2. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X–ray diffraction (XRD) images revealed that incorporation of nano-SiO2 make the ternary composite membranes more flexible. The maximum ion exchange capacity (IEC) value was 3.25 meq/g, and the net structure formed by the nano-SiO2 not only retarded AIL leaching, but also increased the proton conductivity of the composite membranes. AIL leaching from the membranes was between 20% and 30%, which was lower than that of the SPEEK/AIL membrane. The maximum proton conductivity for the SPEEK/AIL/SiO2 membranes reached 10.73 mS/cm at 393 K. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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15 pages, 3791 KiB  
Article
Facile Fabrication of Multi-Structured SiO2@PVDF-HFP Nanofibrous Membranes for Enhanced Copper Ions Adsorption
by Haohong Pi, Rui Wang, Baona Ren, Xiuqin Zhang and Jing Wu
Polymers 2018, 10(12), 1385; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10121385 - 13 Dec 2018
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4423
Abstract
The low-cost, heavy metal ion (Cu(II)) adsorptive multi-structured nanofibrous membranes of silicon oxide naonoparticles in-situ anchored polyvinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene (SiO2@PVDF-HFP) fibers were fabricated by the facile electrospinning technique combined with sol–gel strategy. To explore the benefits of the structure-related Cu(II) adsorption capacity, [...] Read more.
The low-cost, heavy metal ion (Cu(II)) adsorptive multi-structured nanofibrous membranes of silicon oxide naonoparticles in-situ anchored polyvinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene (SiO2@PVDF-HFP) fibers were fabricated by the facile electrospinning technique combined with sol–gel strategy. To explore the benefits of the structure-related Cu(II) adsorption capacity, the fiber diameters of SiO2@PVDF-HFP nanofibrous membranes were changed which also resulted in the change of their porosity. Taking advantage of the constructed multi-structures and efficient fiber morphology regulation which not only changed the PVDF-HFP nanofibrous membrane from hydrophobic to superhydrophilic but also increased the porosity of the membrane, the SiO2@PVDF-HFP nanofibrous membrane with a smaller diameter and a larger porosity exhibits higher Cu(II) adsorption capacity. The adsorption amount was approximate to 21.9 mg per gram of the membrane, which was higher than that of membranes with larger fiber diameter (smaller porosity) and the smooth one. Furthermore, the model isotherms of Freundlich and Langmuir, as well as the kinetic models of pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order were preferred to analyze the adsorption equilibrium data. The Freundlich model and the pseudo-first-order were well fitted to the adsorption experimental data. It not only uncovers the structure-related-property of multi-structured nanofibrous membranes, but also provides an efficient and facile way to design heavy metal ion adsorption materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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11 pages, 4319 KiB  
Article
Structure Mediation and Properties of Poly(l-lactide)/Poly(d-lactide) Blend Fibers
by Bo Yang, Rui Wang, Hui-Ling Ma, Xiaolu Li, Harald Brünig, Zhenfeng Dong, Yue Qi and Xiuqin Zhang
Polymers 2018, 10(12), 1353; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10121353 - 06 Dec 2018
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3752
Abstract
Poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) and poly(d-lactic acid) (PDLA) blend as-spun fibers (50/50, wt.%) were prepared by melt spinning. Structure mediation under temperature and stress and properties of poly(l-lactic acid)/poly(d-lactic acid)(PLLA/PDLA) as-spun fibers were investigated by wide-angle [...] Read more.
Poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) and poly(d-lactic acid) (PDLA) blend as-spun fibers (50/50, wt.%) were prepared by melt spinning. Structure mediation under temperature and stress and properties of poly(l-lactic acid)/poly(d-lactic acid)(PLLA/PDLA) as-spun fibers were investigated by wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The results show that highly oriented stereocomplex (SC) crystals can be formed in PLLA/PDLA blend fibers drawn at 60 °C and annealed at 200 °C. However, at drawn temperature of 80 °C, only lower oriented SC crystals can be formed. For PLLA/PDLA blend fibers drawn twice at 60 °C (PLLA/PDLA-60-2), the crystallinity of SC crystals increases with annealing temperature in the range of 200 to 215 °C, while the degree of orientation decreases slightly. When the annealing temperature is 210 °C, the crystallinity and orientation of SC crystals in PLLA/PDLA-60-2 fibers reach 51% and −0.39, respectively. Moreover, PLLA/PDLA-60-2-210 fibers exhibit excellent heat-resistant property even at 200 °C. The results indicate that the oriented PLLA/PDLA blend fibers with high SC crystals content can be regulated in a short time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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14 pages, 4338 KiB  
Article
Improved Energy Storage Performance of Linear Dielectric Polymer Nanodielectrics with Polydopamine coated BN Nanosheets
by Jian Wang, Yunchuan Xie, Jingjing Liu, Zhicheng Zhang, Qiang Zhuang and Jie Kong
Polymers 2018, 10(12), 1349; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10121349 - 05 Dec 2018
Cited by 42 | Viewed by 4015
Abstract
Polymer-based nanodielectrics have been intensively investigated for their potential application as energy storage capacitors. However, their relatively low energy density (Ue) and discharging efficiency (η) may greatly limit their practical usage. In present work, high insulating two-dimensional boron [...] Read more.
Polymer-based nanodielectrics have been intensively investigated for their potential application as energy storage capacitors. However, their relatively low energy density (Ue) and discharging efficiency (η) may greatly limit their practical usage. In present work, high insulating two-dimensional boron nitride nanosheets (BNNS), were introduced into a linear dielectric polymer (P(VDF-TrFE-CTFE)-g-PMMA) matrix to enhance the energy storage performance of the composite. Thanks to the surface coating of polydopamine (PDA) on BN nanosheets, the composite filled with 6 wt% coated BNNS (mBNNS) exhibits significantly improved breakdown strength (Eb) of 540 MV/m and an energy density (Ue) of 11 J/cm3, which are increased by 23% and 100%, respectively as compared with the composite filled with the same content of pristine BNNS. Meanwhile, η of both composites is well retained at around 70% even under a high voltage of 400 MV/m, which is superior to most of the reported composites. This work suggests that complexing polymer matrix with linear dielectric properties with surface coated BNNS fillers with high insulating 2D structure might be a facile strategy to achieve composite dielectrics with simultaneously high energy density and high discharging efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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13 pages, 2834 KiB  
Article
Multifunctional Hybrid Composites with Enhanced Mechanical and Thermal Properties Based on Polybenzoxazine and Chopped Kevlar/Carbon Hybrid Fibers
by Hamid Abdelhafid Ghouti, Abdeldjalil Zegaoui, Mehdi Derradji, Wan-an Cai, Jun Wang, Wen-bin Liu and Abdul Qadeer Dayo
Polymers 2018, 10(12), 1308; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10121308 - 26 Nov 2018
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4469
Abstract
This work studied the structural, morphological, mechanical, and thermal properties of newly designed polymeric materials using high-performance hybrid fibers to reinforce the polybenzoxazine resins. To achieve this goal, hybrid fibers consisting of chopped Kevlar and carbon fibers were subjected to a silane surface [...] Read more.
This work studied the structural, morphological, mechanical, and thermal properties of newly designed polymeric materials using high-performance hybrid fibers to reinforce the polybenzoxazine resins. To achieve this goal, hybrid fibers consisting of chopped Kevlar and carbon fibers were subjected to a silane surface treatment, incorporated into the resin matrix in various combinations, and then isothermally cured using the compression molding technique. The mechanical performances of the prepared composites were scrutinized in terms of bending and tensile tests. By way of illustration, the composites holding 20 wt % Kevlar fibers and 20 wt % carbon fibers accomplished a bending strength and modulus of 237.35 MPa and 7.80 GPa, respectively. Additionally, the same composites recorded a tensile stress and toughness of 77 MPa and 0.27 MPa, respectively, indicating an increase of about 234% and 32.8% when compared to the pristine resin’s properties. The thermogravimetric analysis denoted an excellent thermal resistance of the reinforced hybrid composites. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy proved that the functional groups of the as-used coupling agent were effectively grafted on the external surfaces of the reinforcing systems, and further confirmed that the chemical reaction took place between the treated fibers and the polybenzoxazine matrix, although the scanning electron microscope showed a uniform dispersion and interfacial adhesion of the fibers within the resin matrix. In fact, the incorporation of treated fibers along with their good dispersion/adhesion could explain the progressive enhancement in terms of thermal and mechanical properties that were observed in the hybrid composites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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12 pages, 4503 KiB  
Article
Synthesis of Phosphated K-Carrageenan and Its Application for Flame-Retardant Waterborne Epoxy
by Na Wang, Haiwei Teng, Long Li, Jing Zhang and Ping Kang
Polymers 2018, 10(11), 1268; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10111268 - 15 Nov 2018
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3641
Abstract
In this paper, phosphated K-carrageenan (P-KC) was obtained by reacting POCl3 with the renewable source K-carrageenan (KC). P-KC and 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) were added into waterborne epoxy (EP) to improve its flame retardancy. The structure of P-KC was studied comprehensively using Fourier transform [...] Read more.
In this paper, phosphated K-carrageenan (P-KC) was obtained by reacting POCl3 with the renewable source K-carrageenan (KC). P-KC and 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) were added into waterborne epoxy (EP) to improve its flame retardancy. The structure of P-KC was studied comprehensively using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA), showing the successful synthesis of P-KC. The flame retardancy of the EP was evaluated by the cone calorimeter test. The results showed that different mass ratios of DOPO and P-KC affected the flame retardancy of EP. When the mass ratio of DOPO and P-KC was 2:1, total heat release (THR) and total smoke production (TSP) decreased by 48.7% and 37.4%, respectively. The microstructures of residue char were observed by FTIR and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), indicating that the flame-retardant waterborne epoxy (FR-EP) system held a more cohesive and denser char structure. The char inhibited the diffusion of heat and oxygen, which played a key role in the flame retardancy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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16 pages, 3242 KiB  
Article
Preparation and Properties of the 3-pentadecyl-phenol In Situ Modified Foamable Phenolic Resin
by Tiejun Ge, Kaihong Tang, Yang Yu and Xiapeng Tan
Polymers 2018, 10(10), 1124; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10101124 - 10 Oct 2018
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4722
Abstract
In this present study, 3-pentadecyl-phenol was selected as a modifier to prepare a foamable phenolic resin with excellent performance, which was successfully prepared by in situ modification. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR, 13C NMR) [...] Read more.
In this present study, 3-pentadecyl-phenol was selected as a modifier to prepare a foamable phenolic resin with excellent performance, which was successfully prepared by in situ modification. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR, 13C NMR) were used to test and characterize the molecular structure of the modified resin. The results showed that 3-pentadecyl-phenol successfully modified the molecular structure of phenolic resin with a reduction in the resin gel time. The effect of changing the added amount of 3-pentadecyl-phenol on the mechanical properties, microstructure, and flame retardancy of the modified foam was investigated. The results showed that when the amount of added 3-pentadecyl-phenol was 15% of the total amount of phenol, this resulted in the best toughness of the modified foam, which could be increased to 300% compared to the bending deflection of the unmodified phenolic foam. The cell structure showed that the modified phenolic foam formed a more regular and dense network structure and the closed cell ratio was high. Furthermore, the compressive strength, bending strength, and limited oxygen index were improved, while the water absorption rate was lowered. However, the foam density could be kept below 40 mg/cm3, which does not affect the load. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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13 pages, 5446 KiB  
Article
Ammonium Polyphosphate Intercalated Layered Double Hydroxide and Zinc Borate as Highly Efficient Flame Retardant Nanofillers for Polypropylene
by Yanshan Gao, Qiang Wang and Weiran Lin
Polymers 2018, 10(10), 1114; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10101114 - 09 Oct 2018
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4923
Abstract
We found in our previous study that layered double hydroxides (LDHs) which undergo aqueous miscible organic solvent treatment (AMOST) can tune the hydrophobicity surface of LDHs to be hydrophobic, and then the solvent mixing method can be used to prepare polymer/LDH nanocomposites. However, [...] Read more.
We found in our previous study that layered double hydroxides (LDHs) which undergo aqueous miscible organic solvent treatment (AMOST) can tune the hydrophobicity surface of LDHs to be hydrophobic, and then the solvent mixing method can be used to prepare polymer/LDH nanocomposites. However, flame retardant property is not very high if LDHs are only used. In this present work, ammonium polyphosphate (APP) intercalated LDHs and zinc borate (ZB) was incorporated into a polypropylene (PP) matrix using the solvent mixing method. The structures, morphologies, and performance of the composites were characterized carefully. The peak heat release rate (PHRR) reduction of PP containing 10 and 20 wt % APP-LDH reached 27% and 55%, respectively, which increased up to 63% compared with PP/CO3-LDH. After incorporating 2 wt % ZB in the PP/APP-LDH system, the flame retardant property was further improved. Polypropylene composites with 20 wt % APP-LDH and 2 wt % ZB showed a 58% PHRR reduction. In addition, thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA) results indicated that the addition of APP-LDH and ZB improved the temperature at 50% weight loss (T50%) and the char formation of the materials significantly. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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10 pages, 12702 KiB  
Article
PPESK-Modified Multi-Functional Epoxy Resin and Its Application to the Pultrusion of Carbon Fiber
by Liwei Wang, Jinyan Wang, Fengfeng Zhang, Yu Qi, Zhihuan Weng and Xigao Jian
Polymers 2018, 10(10), 1067; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10101067 - 26 Sep 2018
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4442
Abstract
Multi-functional epoxy resins are generally brittle due to their high crosslinking densities, which can limit their use for applications that require impact resistance. Pultruded poly(phthalazinone ether sulfone ketone) (PPESK)-modified epoxy resins were prepared and their curing behaviors, heat resistance properties, and viscosity changes [...] Read more.
Multi-functional epoxy resins are generally brittle due to their high crosslinking densities, which can limit their use for applications that require impact resistance. Pultruded poly(phthalazinone ether sulfone ketone) (PPESK)-modified epoxy resins were prepared and their curing behaviors, heat resistance properties, and viscosity changes investigated. The glass transition temperature of these resins was found to increase with increasing PPESK content; however, these values were still compatible with the pultrusion process. Little change in the tensile strength and elongation lengths at breaking point were observed for blended PPESK/multi-functional epoxy resin containing 4–6% PPESK, and its viscosity levels were still within the requirements of the pultrusion process. Carbon fiber/multi-functional epoxy resin/PPESK (CF/E/PPESK) composites were also prepared and their performance investigated. The bending radius of these PPSEK-modified composites could reach up to 55 D with no cracking or peeling observed in their surface layers. The fatigue frequency of the sinusoidal waveforms for the composite did not change after one million fatigue test cycles, meaning that a strength retention rate of >90% was achieved. Therefore, this study describes a powerful approach for preparing toughened multi-functional epoxy resins that are well suited to pultrusion processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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14 pages, 3157 KiB  
Article
A Geometry Effect of Carbon Nanomaterials on Flame Retardancy and Mechanical Properties of Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate/Magnesium Hydroxide Composites
by Zhi-Qi Liu, Zhi Li, Yun-Xian Yang, Yan-Ling Zhang, Xin Wen, Na Li, Can Fu, Rong-Kun Jian, Li-Juan Li and De-Yi Wang
Polymers 2018, 10(9), 1028; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10091028 - 14 Sep 2018
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4573
Abstract
This study was aimed at investigating the effects of carbon nanomaterials with different geometries on improving the flame retardancy of magnesium hydroxide–filled ethylene-vinyl acetate (EM). The thermal stability and flame retardancy were studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), limiting oxygen index (LOI), UL-94 test, [...] Read more.
This study was aimed at investigating the effects of carbon nanomaterials with different geometries on improving the flame retardancy of magnesium hydroxide–filled ethylene-vinyl acetate (EM). The thermal stability and flame retardancy were studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), limiting oxygen index (LOI), UL-94 test, and cone calorimeter test (CCT). The in situ temperature monitoring system and interrupted combustion offered direct evidence to link flame retardancy and composite structure. Results demonstrated that carbon nanomaterials enhanced the thermal stability and fire safety of EM. The geometry of carbon nanomaterials played a key role in synergistic flame retardancy of EM, with the flame-retardant order of carbon nanotube > nanoscale carbon black > graphene. Based on an online temperature monitoring system and interrupted combustion test, one-dimensional carbon nanotube was more inclined to form the network structure synergistically with magnesium hydroxide in ethylene-vinyl acetate, which facilitated the generation of more continuous char structure during combustion. In parallel, the mechanical property was characterized by a tensile test and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The incorporation of carbon nanomaterials presented a limited effect on the mechanical properties of the EM system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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12 pages, 4013 KiB  
Article
Novel Dihydroxy-Containing Ammonium Phosphate Based Poly(Lactic Acid): Synthesis, Characterization and Flame Retardancy
by Rong-Kun Jian, Long Xia, Yuan-Fang Ai and De-Yi Wang
Polymers 2018, 10(8), 871; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10080871 - 05 Aug 2018
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4446
Abstract
The aim of this work is to prepare flame-retardant biobased poly(lactic acid) materials through incorporating a novel flame retardant dihydroxy-containing ammonium phosphate (DAP) derived from 2-chloro-5,5-dimethyl-1,3,2-dioxaphosphinane-2-oxide (DOP) and 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propanediol (AMPD). Interestingly, PLA modified with only 0.5% DAP passed UL-94 V-0 rating, and possessed [...] Read more.
The aim of this work is to prepare flame-retardant biobased poly(lactic acid) materials through incorporating a novel flame retardant dihydroxy-containing ammonium phosphate (DAP) derived from 2-chloro-5,5-dimethyl-1,3,2-dioxaphosphinane-2-oxide (DOP) and 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propanediol (AMPD). Interestingly, PLA modified with only 0.5% DAP passed UL-94 V-0 rating, and possessed a limiting oxygen index (LOI) value of 24.6%, which would further increase with the increasing loading of DAP. PLA/DAP did not exhibit obviously improved results in terms of heat release rate (HRR), as the loading of DAP was relatively low. It was found that DAP showed little effect on the thermal stability of PLA and the onset decomposition temperatures of PLA and PLA/DAP blends were very close. Besides, the degree of crystallization increased because of the plasticized effect of DAP. Based on the analyses of flame-retardant mechanism of DAP, it disclosed that DAP decomposed to generate incombustible compounds, such as water and ammonia, to dilute the concentration of oxygen and fuels, and then release some phosphorus-containing fragments that could produce phosphorus-containing free radicals to interrupt free-radical reactions, and finally noncombustible melt dripping was produced so as to bring away large amount of heat and stop the feedback of heat to the matrix. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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12 pages, 3181 KiB  
Article
Effect of Microfibrillated Cellulose on Microstructure and Properties of Poly(vinyl alcohol) Foams
by Gennaro Gentile, Mariacristina Cocca, Roberto Avolio, Maria Emanuela Errico and Maurizio Avella
Polymers 2018, 10(8), 813; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10080813 - 24 Jul 2018
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4754
Abstract
Poly(vinyl alcohol) foams, containing different amounts of microfibrillated cellulose, were prepared through an eco-friendly procedure based on high-speed mixing and freeze-drying. The effect of filler amount on cell shape and regularity was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the evolution of the [...] Read more.
Poly(vinyl alcohol) foams, containing different amounts of microfibrillated cellulose, were prepared through an eco-friendly procedure based on high-speed mixing and freeze-drying. The effect of filler amount on cell shape and regularity was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the evolution of the microstructure was assessed through dynamic cryo-SEM. Fourier Transformed Infrared Analysis and Differential Scanning Calorimetry measurements revealed the presence of hydrogen bond interaction among cellulosic filler and the matrix. The modulus and compression deflection of neat PVA were significantly improved by increasing the amount of microfibrillated cellulose content with respect to foams realised with pulp cellulose fibers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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17 pages, 5807 KiB  
Article
In Situ Strain and Damage Monitoring of GFRP Laminates Incorporating Carbon Nanofibers under Tension
by Yanlei Wang, Yongshuai Wang, Baoguo Han, Baolin Wan, Gaochuang Cai and Ruijuan Chang
Polymers 2018, 10(7), 777; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10070777 - 16 Jul 2018
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4096
Abstract
In this study, conductive carbon nanofibers (CNFs) were dispersed into epoxy resin and then infused into glass fiber fabric to fabricate CNF/glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) laminates. The electrical resistance and strain of CNF/GFRP laminates were measured simultaneously during tensile loadings to investigate the [...] Read more.
In this study, conductive carbon nanofibers (CNFs) were dispersed into epoxy resin and then infused into glass fiber fabric to fabricate CNF/glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) laminates. The electrical resistance and strain of CNF/GFRP laminates were measured simultaneously during tensile loadings to investigate the in situ strain and damage monitoring capability of CNF/GFRP laminates. The damage evolution and conduction mechanisms of the laminates were also presented. The results indicated that the percolation threshold of CNFs content for CNF/GFRP laminates was 0.86 wt % based on a typical power law. The resistance response during monotonic tensile loading could be classified into three stages corresponding to different damage mechanisms, which demonstrated a good ability of in situ damage monitoring of the CNF/GFRP laminates. In addition, the capacity of in situ strain monitoring of the laminates during small strain stages was also confirmed according to the synchronous and reversible resistance responses to strain under constant cyclic tensile loading. Moreover, the analysis of the resistance responses during incremental amplitude cyclic tensile loading with the maximum strain of 1.5% suggested that in situ strain and damage monitoring of the CNF/GFRP laminates were feasible and stable. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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10 pages, 1245 KiB  
Article
Ethylene Polymerization and Copolymerization with Polar Monomers Using Nickel Complexes Bearing Anilinobenzoic Acid Methyl Ester Ligand
by Hailong Cheng, Yue Su, Yanming Hu, Xuequan Zhang and Zhengguo Cai
Polymers 2018, 10(7), 754; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10070754 - 09 Jul 2018
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4247
Abstract
Neutral nickel complexes containing an anilinobenzoic acid methyl ester ligand are prepared and applied for the ethylene polymerization and copolymerization with polar monomers. The complex C2 containing isopropyl substituent on the aniline ligand conducts ethylene polymerization with high activity and good thermal stability. [...] Read more.
Neutral nickel complexes containing an anilinobenzoic acid methyl ester ligand are prepared and applied for the ethylene polymerization and copolymerization with polar monomers. The complex C2 containing isopropyl substituent on the aniline ligand conducts ethylene polymerization with high activity and good thermal stability. Most importantly, the catalyst promotes the copolymerization of ethylene and polar monomers with high activity (up to 277 kg·mol−1·h−1), affording ester-functionalized semicrystalline polyethylene with reasonable polar monomer content (up to 3.20 mol %). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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17 pages, 4425 KiB  
Article
A Thermoplastic Multilayered Carbon-Fabric/Polycarbonate Laminate Prepared by a Two-Step Hot-Press Technique
by Xiaokang Liu, Binbin Yang, Longsheng Lu, Zhenping Wan and Yong Tang
Polymers 2018, 10(7), 720; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10070720 - 30 Jun 2018
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5637
Abstract
Carbon fiber (CF) reinforced thermoplastic composites have gradually become increasingly popular in composite production owing to their lower hazard level, good structural flexibility and recyclability. In this work, a multilayered carbon–fabric/polycarbonate laminate (multi-CFPL) was fabricated by a two-step hot-press process, mainly based on [...] Read more.
Carbon fiber (CF) reinforced thermoplastic composites have gradually become increasingly popular in composite production owing to their lower hazard level, good structural flexibility and recyclability. In this work, a multilayered carbon–fabric/polycarbonate laminate (multi-CFPL) was fabricated by a two-step hot-press process, mainly based on the thermoplastic properties of its polycarbonate (PC) matrix. Different from the conventional one-step method, the two-step hot-press process was composed of two separate procedures. First, a unit-hot-press operation was introduced to prepare a single-layered carbon–fabric/PC laminate (simplified as unit-CFPL). Subsequently, a laminating-hot-press was employed to compress several as-prepared unit-CFPLs bonded together. This combined process aims to reduce the hot-press temperature and pressure, as well as facilitate the structure designability of this new composite. Several mechanical investigations were conducted to analyze the effect of the hot-press parameters and unit-CFPL numbers on the performance of this multi-CFPL material, including flexural, uniaxial tensile and impact tests. The results reveal that the multi-CFPL exhibits a good stability of flexural and tensile properties in terms of strength and modulus. Furthermore, during impact tests, the multi-CFPL presents an accelerated growth of peak force and energy absorption capability with increasing unit-CFPL layers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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13 pages, 5413 KiB  
Article
In-Situ pH-Sensitive Fibers via the Anchoring of Bromothymol Blue on Cellulose Grafted with Hydroxypropyltriethylamine Groups via Adsorption
by Lele Cao, Tieqiang Liang, Xipeng Zhang, Wenbo Liu, Jian Li, Xianxu Zhan and Lijuan Wang
Polymers 2018, 10(7), 709; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10070709 - 27 Jun 2018
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5138
Abstract
In-situ pH-sensitive cellulose fibers (IS-pH-SCF) were prepared by anchoring bromothymol blue (BTB) onto cellulose fibers (CF) modified with hydroxypropyltriethylamine (HPTTL) groups. Fourier transform infrared and X-ray photoelectron spectrum analyses demonstrated that the HPTTL groups were grafted onto the CF. X-ray diffraction proved that [...] Read more.
In-situ pH-sensitive cellulose fibers (IS-pH-SCF) were prepared by anchoring bromothymol blue (BTB) onto cellulose fibers (CF) modified with hydroxypropyltriethylamine (HPTTL) groups. Fourier transform infrared and X-ray photoelectron spectrum analyses demonstrated that the HPTTL groups were grafted onto the CF. X-ray diffraction proved that cellulose I in the CF transformed into cellulose II after quaternization. Scanning electron microscopy suggested that the quaternized CF (QCF) surface was clean and uniformly ridged. The adsorption of BTB onto QCF was carried out via batch adsorption experiments. A kinetic study illustrated that the adsorption was a spontaneous process and described well by pseudo-second-order, Freundlich and Temkin isotherms. The activation energy for the BTB adsorption onto QCF was 52.89 kJ/mol, which proved that the BTB adsorption onto QCFs was chemically controlled. The pH response demonstrated that the IS-pH-SCF was highly sensitive to pH, with an obvious color change for pH 4 to 8. The release tests showed that BTB was anchored on QCFs and that no BTB was released. IS-pH-SCF has a potential use for indicating pH changes in food. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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Review

Jump to: Research

19 pages, 3550 KiB  
Review
A Review of Recent Advances in Nanoengineered Polymer Composites
by Vishnu Vijay Kumar, G. Balaganesan, Jeremy Kong Yoong Lee, Rasoul Esmaeely Neisiany, S. Surendran and Seeram Ramakrishna
Polymers 2019, 11(4), 644; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym11040644 - 09 Apr 2019
Cited by 54 | Viewed by 7652
Abstract
This review paper initially summarizes the latest developments in impact testing on polymer matrix composites collating the various analytical, numerical, and experimental studies performed since the year 2000. Subsequently, the scientific literature investigating nanofiller reinforced polymer composite matrices as well as self-healing polymer [...] Read more.
This review paper initially summarizes the latest developments in impact testing on polymer matrix composites collating the various analytical, numerical, and experimental studies performed since the year 2000. Subsequently, the scientific literature investigating nanofiller reinforced polymer composite matrices as well as self-healing polymer matrix composites by incorporating core-shell nanofibers is reviewed in-depth to provide a perspective on some novel advances in nanotechnology that have led to composite developments. Through this review, researchers can gain a representative idea of the state of the art in nanotechnology for polymer matrix composite engineering, providing a platform for further study of this increasingly industrially significant material, and to address the challenges in developing the next generation of advanced, high-performance materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-functional Polymer Composites and Structures)
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