5765.1:
Dendritic Polymers for Nanostructured Composite Materials
Abstract
The aim of the project is to implement nanocomposite technology using dendritic polymers. Dendritic molecules form spherical particles with typical diameters of 3 nm and exceptional degrees of surface functionality. Combining the organophilic core of the dendritic molecules with a hydrophilic shell leads to facile exfoliation of layered silicates. The resulting nanocomposite precursors will subsequently be modified to produce new thermally curable resins with unprecedented properties, formulated to suit a wide range of specific practical requirements.
Specific emphasis will be placed on reactive polyurethane polymers used to produce elastomers with improved mechanical properties and increased durability and sustainability in a wide range of commercially important systems and components, such as print rollers and automotive applications. Moreover, extension of the technology to flexible and rigid polyurethane foams is anticipated to lead to unique performance characteristics and enhance the commercial competitiveness of these materials in furnishings, bedding, automotive seating, refrigerator insulation, building construction insulation etc. Successful implementation will contribute the development of new environmentally friendly products with reduced energy or raw materials consumption, for example, and which have extended service lives owing to their improved performance.