Carbon in polymer

Abstract

This chapter provides insight into the composition, preparation, properties, and applications of composites based on polymer matrix and different forms of nanosized carbon filler. Carbon nanotube and graphene filler materials are discussed in greater detail. The dispersion and orientation of these fillers and the interfacial adhesion between the filler and the matrix material play important roles in determining the mechanical, electrical, and other properties of the composites created. Accordingly, this chapter describes the role as well as the characterization techniques of these properties. In particular, it will be shown how Raman spectroscopy is becoming an important noninvasive technique both to characterize the electronic structure and to follow the deformation behavior of carbon-based nanomaterials. Such spectroscopic knowledge reveals the intrinsic properties of these nanomaterials, the interaction of the reinforcement with the surrounding environment, and hence the efficiency of the mechanical reinforcement in these composites.