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NMP-2007-2.1-1 Nanostructured polymer-matrix composites
Technical content / scope: Nanostructured composite materials are emerging as an area with great promise, in particular in the case of polymeric matrices having, for example, nanostructured clays and ceramics as fillers. These polymer nanocomposites exhibiting radically enhanced properties require a lower filler loading than composites using traditional fillers, resulting in markedly improved performance at a lower density. Major areas where research is required are the chemical interaction of nanofillers with the polymer host as well as the composite processing with uniform dispersion (e. g. in exfoliation) and the thermal stability of polymer nanocomposites using, for instance, layered silicates and carbon nanotubes or nanofibres as nanoinclusions. Approaches are expected to consider the combinations of matrices and potential reinforcing nanoelements with different chemistry, size, shape and properties, as well as the processing techniques, in order to obtain radically enhanced mechanical and physical performance, based on a thorough understanding of the fundamental mechanisms. Attention should also be paid to the life cycle analysis, to the safety issues related to the use of nanofillers, and to the cost effectiveness of the nanostructured composite materials in comparison to the materials currently used.
Funding scheme: Large scale integrating collaborative projects.
Special features: Industrial leadership is expected. This research area is particularly well suited for cooperation with Third Countries (e.g. United States, Russia, China, India).
Expected impact: Nanostructured composites have the potential for enhanced product characteristics, such as improved thermal stability and fire retardancy, biocompatibility, increased mechanical strength and improved barrier properties for many industrial areas, including the biomedical, optoelectronics, construction, maritime and automotive sectors, where improved performance at a reduced cost and weight are important.