Processing of Polymer Composites

Polymers are excellent candidates for composites development. They present low density, are easily processed, and insulate electricity and heat. High-performance polymers (e.g., PEEK, PI, Cyanate Ester) are high-heat resistant (>200 oC) and can achieve similar mechanical properties to aluminum. When reinforced with 2D (e.g., GNP, BNNP) or 1D (e.g., CNT, BNNT) materials, the strength can increase two orders of magnitude in comparison to its neat form. This research aims to evaluate different polymer nanocomposite structures in terms of mechanical, tribological, thermal, electrical, and radiation shielding properties, for aerospace and other high-performance applications. Three main different methods of 2D materials dispersion are investigated: foam structures, layered structure, and solution dispersion. We are interested in different routes for processing such polymer composites, including but not limited to 2D materials foams infiltration, direct forming, additive manufacturing, and cold-spray.