Objectives and Impact
Polymer nanocomposites with novel functional and structural properties
COST Action MP0701
Polymer Nanocomposites ( PNCM) are blends of different polymer matrices
with nanometre sized functional particles. The properties of such
nanocomposites are remarkably different compared to conventionally
filled polymers. Improvement of volume properties (modulus, strength),
surface properties (hardness, abrasion resistance, and surface energy),
dimensional stability as well as improvements of functional properties
e.g. photocatalytic, optical, electrical, magnetic and thermal and
improvements of permeability and chemical stability (UV resistance,
flame retardancy) have already been demonstrated. The incorporation of
only a few percent of nanosized particles makes great property changes
and formerly unachievable property combinations possible.
The main Objective of the COST Action MP0701 which has been initiated in March 2008
is to form a
European-wide scientific and technology knowledge platform on the topic
of nanocomposite materials in order to advance the R&D, the use and
exploitation of these innovative materials in Europe with a special
focus on SME.
There are many innovative uses of PNCM in industry either already realised or considered:
- Automotive: paints, windscreens, catalysts, timing belt cover, engine cover, fuel lines, lightweight construction
- Electronics and Optoelectronics: adhesives,
glues, electrically conductive composites, signal wire shielding,
electrostatic painting, interference shielding, photovoltaic cells
- Medical: membranes,
tubings, stent delivery balloons, bioactive nanocomposites, dental
fillings, artificial blood pumps, blood sacs, artificial hearts,
orthopaedic applications, elastomeric membranes
- Packaging (Food industry): conservation foils, membranes, bottles, containers
- Aviation: mechanical engineering, controlled processing, adaptive systems
- Construction: High performance nanocomposites coatings, building preservation/ restoration
- Flame retardant applications: wire and cable covers, battery char, electrical enclosures, home interior decoration, insulation thermal/acoustic
- Sports equipment: tennis
rackets/squash rackets, fishing rods, hockey sticks, golf clubs, high
performance bicycles, skis & ski poles, training shoes, protective
eyewear
- Oil and Gas: pipes for steam assisted gravity drainage, oil sand extraction equipment, plastic vessels
- Energy industry: ultra capacitors, photovoltaic systems, plastic pipes, electrical insulation
The Cost action MP0701 is structured in 4 different working-groups:
- WG1 Nanoparticles / Interfaces:
selection of matrix and nanoparticles, production of nanoparticles,
surface functionalisation / chemical treatments of nanoparticles
- WG2 Structure/Property Relationships: linking nanosized structures to macroscopic functional properties
- WG3 Characterisation – Modelling – Simulation: characterisation and measurement tools, simulation and modelling tools
- WG4 Processing: primary
processing, dispersion –exfoliation, characterisation, properties and
performance of components, process control (inline), cost effective
methods of processing, standardisation, manufacturing into components,
management of health, safety & environmental risks
Who can participate?
Once a country has signed up to the COST action all institutions of
this particular country are entitled to participate. The countries
which have been signed up so far are: AT, BE, CY, CZ, FI, DE, IR, IT,
LV, LT, NO, PL, P, RO, SK, ES, S, CH, TR, UK, GR, IS, HU.
COST is an open network and further countries are welcome to participate.
The Cost action is funding workshops, seminars, scientific conferences,
short term scientific visits (up to three months in laboratories of
other participants) and publications.
Further information can be found on the COST webpage www.esf.cost.org and on the webpage of the COST action MP0701 on polymer Nanocomposites www.nanocomposites-cost.eu
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