Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, Vol.53, No.34, 13329-13339, 2014
High Performance Pseudoelastic Metal Nanowire Reinforced Elastomeric Composite
The effects of pseudoelastic metal nanowires on the mechanical performance, thermal stability, and electrical conductivity of an elastomeric matrix were investigated. Subnanometer pseudoelastic metal nanowires were synthesized, and methodologies were developed for their functionalization and uniform dispersion in elastomer matrices. Pseudoelastic nanowires were found to significantly increase the stiffness, strength, electrical conductivity, and thermomechanical stability of the elastomer matrix while retaining its nonlinear strain recovery capability. These qualities are realized using low nanowire dosages (similar to 1 wt %). The combinations of qualities offered by this new class of nanocomposites are of significant value to major commercial markets.