Thermoset/MXene Nanocomposites

Abstract

MXenes have tremendous potential for advanced composite structures due to their unique mechano-ceramic structure, which endows them with superior mechanical performance, high thermal stability, and rich surface properties. The surface terminating groups of MXene makes it a versatile two-dimensional material for the formulation of various polymer composites due to the great affinity with most macromolecules, especially thermosets. The thermoset nanocomposites have high thermal, mechanical, and barrier properties. Currently, thermoset/MXene nanocomposites have gained attention in the automotive industry, marine transportation, civil engineering, and electronics as supercapacitors, energy storage devices, and for the manufacture of electromagnetic interference shielding devices. This chapter introduces the various types of thermosets and their nanocomposites with brief commercial prospects. Recent advances in thermoset/MXene-based nanocomposites, as well as their method of fabrication, such as in situ polymerization blending, solution mixing, injection molding, vacuum-assisted filtration, template-assisted fabrication, and resin transfer molding are discussed. Finally, the chapter covers the structure, morphology, mechanics, challenges, and current applications of thermoset/MXene nanocomposites.