This book emphasizes the latest advancements in green composites, with a focus on incorporating micro and nano-sized particles into sustainable polymers. The escalating global energy demands and the depletion of fossil fuels are compelling scientists worldwide to explore "green materials" derived from natural resources. While synthetic materials cannot be entirely replaced, researchers are exerting significant efforts to minimize hazardous materials by utilizing sustainable polymers. Further studies are necessary to optimize the efficiency of green polymers reinforced with micro and nanomaterials. This book highlights the diverse applications of sustainable composites. It benefits academics, industrialists, and researchers, offering insights into reducing the environmental impact caused by synthetic composites through green composites. Additionally, this book discusses necessary steps for the commercialization of sustainable polymer composites. While numerous books address green composites, there is a gap in the market regarding the commercialization aspects and measures taken to reduce carbon footprints, this book addresses that gap.
Dr. Lakshmipriya Ravindran is currently employed at Mahatma Gandhi University, India, as Chief Minster's Nava Kerala Post-Doctoral Fellow (CMNKPDF), in the International and Inter University Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IIUCNN). Her primary research interests encompass the synthesis of nanomaterials sourced from both bio-origin and synthetic materials. A significant portion of her work revolves around the preparation of nanocomposites and macro composites, polymer foams, exploring their applications across various domains. Her expertise extends to the realm of flexible electronics, polymer foams, polymer hydrogels, and membranes designed for water purification.
Akhila is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in the field of biopolymer nanocomposites. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Mahatma Gandhi University, followed by a Master's degree in Chemistry. Akhila's proficiency in instrumentation software and her research-oriented mindset makes her a valuable asset in the field of chemistry.
Dr. Sreekala M S is an associate professor at the School of Chemical Sciences and joint director of the School of Nano Science and Nano Technology, Inter National Interuniversity Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala, India. Some of her significant contributions to the field of biopolymer research include the development of biopolymer-based composites for food packaging and the fabrication of nanofibers from natural polymers for various applications. Dr. Sreekala has collaborated with several national and international research organizations to develop sustainable biopolymer-based materials.
Prof. Dr. Miran Mozetič is a distinguished physicist and researcher known for his plasma technologies and surface engineering expertise. He obtained his Ph.D. in Electronic vacuum technologies from the University of Maribor, Slovenia, in 1997. Currently serving as the Head of the Department of Surface Engineering at the Jozef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia, he has made significant contributions to academia and industry.
Dr. Sabu Thomas is the director of the School of Energy Materials, School of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, International Inter-University Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Mahatma Gandhi University, India. He received his Ph.D. in Polymer Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur, India. His research group specializes in areas of polymers, which include polymer blends, fibre filled polymer composites, particulate-filled polymer composites and their morphological characterization, ageing and degradation, pervaporation phenomena, sorption and diffusion, interpenetrating polymer systems, recyclability and reuse of waste plastics and rubbers, elastomer cross-linking, dual porous nanocomposite scaffolds for tissue engineering, etc.
