Xiaomei Fang

Effect of polar particles on polymer composite dielectrics

Incorporated with polar ceramic particles, polymers were shown to exhibit improved dielectric properties. This work focused on the interaction of polar ceramic particles with the hosting polymers so as to improve the distribution of particles and the dielectric properties of polymer composites. Both computation and experimental observation were conducted toward the understanding of composite dielectric engineering. The electric field was found to be localized at the particle-polymer interface likely contributing to the polarization of polar particles.

Tunable Nanodielectric Composites

This paper presents a progress update with the development of nanodielectric composites with electric field tunability for various high energy, high power electrical applications. It is demonstrated that nonlinear electrical/dielectric properties can be achieved via the nanostructure and interface engineering. A high level summary was given on the progress achieved as well as challenges remaining in nanodielectric engineering towards high energy density capacitors for energy storage and conversion, nonlinear dielectrics for tunable device, and high voltage varistor for surge suppression.

Mechanical and Thermal Properties

In the past decade, significant progress has been made in the area of advanced polymer materials, especially polymer nanocomposites. Future technology trends demand higher performance and lightweight materials in order to meet system level operational and reliability requirements. By combining the specific properties of the polymer matrix and the unique properties of nano-sized particles, a broad spectrum of properties of nanocomposites can be realized. Optimum combinations of mechanical, electrical and thermal properties of polymer materials can be tuned using proper choices of nanoparticles, coatings and processing conditions. In this chapter, recent developments on improving the mechanical and thermal properties of polymer nanocomposites will be summarized.