FURI | Spring 2018

Synthesis and Characterization of Traditional and Chalcogenide Nanocomposites

An emerging class of composite materials, known as nanocomposites, promises to realize the novel and often unparalleled performance of nanoscale structures (graphene, etc.) on a macroscopic scale. Polymers currently represent one of the most promising materials for reinforcement because they can be produced and processed at low temperatures. The research objective is to explore the currently under-explored characteristics of chalcogenide nanocomposites, which refer to nanoscale sulfur, selenium, and tellurium compounds. Specifically, telluride nanomaterials will be in situ-intercalated (mixed during polymerization) into a Nylon 6 polymer to compare their properties to existing nanocomposites and establish the effects of chalcogenide reinforcement.