About this Research Topic
Polymer nanocomposites have prolific applications in the environmental domain especially in wastewater treatments and desalination of brackish and sea water. Polymer nanocomposites comprising of metal oxides such as Zinc Oxide, Titanium Oxide and Copper oxide have exhibited dual roles of adsorbing synthetic dyes and further degrading the organic dyes. For example, Lead ions which are highly carcinogenic were effectively removed by poly (N-vinylcarbazole) filled graphene oxide with a greater adsorption capacity. In addition to the wastewater remediation, polymer nanocomposites are applied in desalinating the salt water and a few studies have shown disinfection of microbes by silver loaded nanocomposites. In a study, Polymer nanocomposite membranes made from multi wall carbon nanotube and polyamide were effective in rejecting NaCl and humic acid compared to polymeric membrane without nanotubes. Hence, the polymer nanocomposites are prolific in remediating and mitigating the environment. Polymers and polymer composites also have vast applicability in the energy storage and conversion as electrolytes and binders. Electrolytes are crucial in the performance of energy storage devices. The polymers upon mixing with appropriate solvents and salts form different type electrolytes like solid-state electrolyte, gel type electrolyte, and film electrolytes. The polymers and their derivatives (like PVDF, PVA, CMC, and PTFE) act as binder enhances the performance and life time of the energy storage device.
We welcome Original Research, Review, Mini Review and Perspective articles on themes including, but not limited to:
• Synthesis and characterization of polymers
• Fabrication of polymer metal oxide and metal sulphide nanocomposites
• Biocompatible polymer nanocomposites
• Thin film fabrication of polymer nanocomposites
• Membrane applications of polymer nanocomposites
• Non-corrosive polymer nanocomposite coatings
• Oil absorption investigations of polymer nanocomposites
• Application as electrolyte and binder in energy storage devices
• Polymer assisted synthesis of nanomaterials and applications
Keywords: Nanomaterials, Nanocomposites, Polymers, Nanometal-oxides, Water treatment
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