Consumer Nanoproducts based on Polymer nanocomposites matrices

Abstract

In the last years, the development of polymeric-based nanocomposites has been a relevant area with high scientific and industrial interest. This is related with numerous improvements achieved in these materials, derived from the combination of one or more polymeric matrices and the incorporation of an inorganic or organic nanomaterial. The enhanced performance of those materials generally includes better mechanical strength, toughness, and stiffness, improved electrical and thermal conductivity, superior flame retardancy, and higher barrier properties (to moisture and gases). Polymeric nanocomposites can also display unique design possibilities, offering advantages for the production of functional materials with specific and desired properties for different kinds of applications. In addition, the opportunity to use natural resources together with their environmental friendship has also open new and different opportunities for applications of those materials.This contribution revises the advances in consumer nanoproducts based on polymeric matrix nanocomposites. Nanomaterials have been increasingly inserted into consumer products, although research is still ongoing on their possible effects on the environment and human health. The consumer nanoproducts that are present in the market include cosmetics, clothing, food, electronic equipment, etc. At the same time, this has triggered the development of databases and inventories with information on engineered nanomaterials (ENM) embedded in nanoproducts. The objective of the next chapter is to describe the consumer nanoproducts based on polymer nanocomposites matrix present in the market and to evaluate their advantages and disadvantages and their consumption risks.