Analysis of optimal crosslink density and platelet size insensitivity in graphene-based artificial nacres

Structure-dependent mechanical properties of self-folded two-dimensional nanomaterials

The design of self-folded two-dimensional nanomaterials (SF-2DNMs) has been proposed to greatly enhance the ductility of two-dimensional material assemblies. However, the dependences of the mechanical properties of SF-2DNMs on the folded geometries have not been fully clarified. In this paper, we develop a theoretical model to describe the mechanical properties of SF-2DNMs based on the shear-lag analysis. With this model, the load transfer behaviors in SF-2DNMs are demonstrated. The Young's modulus and tensile strength of SF-2DNMs are found to increase and then converge with the fold length, which agree well with the results of molecular dynamics simulations. Moreover, the phase diagrams of failure modes are obtained for SF-2DNMs and their stacked assemblies, providing design criteria for the geometries of SF-2DNMs. The structure-property relationship revealed in our study will provide useful guidelines for the structure design and property optimization of SF-2DNMs.

Structure-Function Relationships of Nanocarbon/Polymer Composites for Chemiresistive Sensing: A Review

Composites of organic compounds and inorganic nanomaterials provide novel sensing platforms for high-performance sensor applications. The combination of the attractive functionalities of nanomaterials with polymers as an organic matrix offers promising materials with tunable electrical, mechanical, and chemisensitive properties. This review mainly focuses on nanocarbon/polymer composites as chemiresistors. We first describe the structure and properties of carbon nanofillers as reinforcement agents used in the manufacture of polymer composites and the sensing mechanism of developed nanocomposites as chemiresistors. Then, the design and synthesizing methods of polymer composites based on carbon nanofillers are discussed. The electrical conductivity, mechanical properties, and the applications of different nanocarbon/polymer composites for the detection of different analytes are reviewed. Lastly, challenges and the future vision for applications of such nanocomposites are described.

Polymer nanocomposites having a high filler content: synthesis, structures, properties, and applications

The recent development of nanoscale fillers, such as carbon nanotubes, graphene, and nanocellulose, allows the functionality of polymer nanocomposites to be controlled and enhanced. However, conventional synthesis methods of polymer nanocomposites cannot maximise the reinforcement of these nanofillers at high filler content. Approaches for the synthesis of high content filler polymer nanocomposites are suggested to facilitate future applications. The fabrication methods address the design of the polymer nanocomposite architecture, which encompasses one, two, and three dimensional morphologies. Factors that hamper the reinforcement of nanostructures, such as alignment, dispersion of the filler and interfacial bonding between the filler and polymer, are outlined. Using suitable approaches, maximum potential reinforcement of nanoscale fillers can be anticipated without limitations in orientation, dispersion, and the integrity of the filler particle-matrix interface. High filler content polymer composites containing emerging materials such as 2D transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides (MXenes) are expected in the future.