Self-Assembly of Polymer Nanocomposites for Dielectrics and HV Insulation

Recent studies have indicated the potential for polymer nanomaterials and nanocomposites as dielectric materials with unique properties or as advanced materials for use in hv equipment. The ability to facilitate the orientation of the nanoparticles and their bonding to the surrounding polymer matrix, so-called "self assembly", especially if it occurs spontaneously, thermodynamically favored, will be important steps in achieving beneficial properties of the final polymer nanomaterial Selection of the starting material and preprocessing steps, such as functionalization of the nanoparticles or the addition of specific chemical coupling agents, plus the dynamics of the final processing, will play significant roles in achieving the desired self assembled structures. Preliminary models for self assembly will be reviewed, specifically covering the physics and chemistry of the steps involved. Future opportunities and directions for self assembled polymer nanomaterials will be presented, together with their impact on electrical, thermal, mechanical, and physical properties.