Multifunctions of Polymer Nanocomposites: Environmental Remediation, Electromagnetic Interference Shielding, And Sensing Applications

Abstract

Abstract Polymer nanocomposites (PNCs), i. e . nanofillers dispersed in a polymer matrix, have become a prominent area of current research promoted by rapid developments in the polymer science and nanotechnology. As a promising alternative to conventional composites which are reinforced with micro‐scale fillers, PNCs exhibit substantially improved overall performance and simplified processing at much lower nanofiller loadings. PNCs have great potentials for a broad range of applications, e. g . environmental remediation, energy storage/conversion, transportation, and national defense. In this regard, the most recent advances in PNCs for the environmental remediation, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding and sensing & actuation applications are presented. Challenges and perspectives of PNCs are also discussed.