| The purpose of this study was to carryout a thorough literature review of nanocomposites, to identify the first successful research and trace their historical path citing key research and developmental mile posts.; The search consisted of identifying the polymeric materials, compounding methods employed and properties altered. It was found that the following polymers were most popular for research and development of nanocomposites: polyamides, polypropylene, polyethylene, styrenics, vinyls, polycarbonate, epoxyies, acrylics, poly butylene terephthalates, urethanes as well as a variety of miscellaneous engineering resins. The favorite filler used was montmorillonite clay. Montmorillonite nanoclays are unique since they have a platy structure with a unit thickness of one nanometer or less and an aspect ratio in the 1000:1 range. |
