Thermal and thermo-oxidative degradation of polymer nanocomposites

Abstract

Polymer nanocomposites have been widely studied in the last few years since they have broad applications in several industrial sectors. The incorporation of nanofillers plays a crucial role in enhancing polymer properties such as mechanical, electrical, optical, or thermal. This chapter emphasizes key findings on how different nanoparticles affect the thermal stability of polymers. Additionally, it explores the mechanisms of thermal and thermo-oxidative degradation. The processes underlying the thermal degradation of these nanocomposites are generally associated with the type and concentration of the nanoparticles used; the gas-barrier properties of inorganic nanoparticles, which prevent the formation and release of volatile degradation byproducts; and the interactions between nanoparticles and reactive groups within the polymer matrix.