Nanocomposites
We embed nanoparticles into polymers in order to give these plastics new functionality. We currently focus on functionalized graphenes as nanofillers, with an emphasis on developing materials with excellent mechanical properties [10]. However, graphene can also be used to make rubber electrically conductive [14].
We developed several new techniques to directly measure the mechanical interaction strength between graphene particles and different polymers [15], [17]. This allows us to systematically develop new materials with improved strength and stiffness.
The described experimental techniques are enabling tools which we use for a new approach to nanocomposite development: away from the “trial & error” philosophy, and toward a systematic design of materials with predictable properties.
Our Nanocomposite Research in the Media
| May 2012 | "Lighter, Stronger, Better" — our research on graphene-based high-performance polymer nanocomposites is featured in the ideation magazine. |  |
Our Press Releases
| 11 Oct 2019 |
Press Release: William & Mary Purification Method Reveals the Next Generation of Cooling Material for Electronic Devices By Mahmoud Amin We developed a method of purifying BNNTs at low temperatures with higher than 90% yield. In electronics, BNNTs are excellent electrical insulators with high thermal conductivity. |
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| 6 Apr 2016 |
New Graphene-Based Coatings By Hannes Schniepp Our new paper shows that putting atomically thin graphene nano-sheets into plastics can make paints and coatings much better. |
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Our Related Publications
Nanocomposite Funding
| Aug 2015 | The National Science Foundation (NSF) has made a 4-year, $324,000 award from the DMREF program (Designing Materials to Revolutionize and Engineer our Future) to Prof. Schniepp, starting Oct. 2015. |  |
Current Researchers
| Mahmoud Amin | Hannes C. Schniepp |
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