The production of 'polymer nanocomposites' has recently gained considerable attention from both the academic and industrial community, especially in the area of nanoscience. This is mainly due to their enhanced improvements in physico-mechanical, thermal and barrier properties compared to micro and more conventional composites. Their nanoscale dimensions, biodegradable character, cost-effectiveness and sustainability have constituted a stimulus for this increasing interest. Currently there is no limit to the possibility of applications. However, despite all this progress, it is still difficult to achieve uniform dispersion between the filler and the matrix, as agglomerations form far too easily and the production of polymer nanocomposites with high mechanical and thermal properties is still limited.
The authors of this proposed book, are of the opinion, that with the increase in scientific publications and the rapid progress in processing possibilities to produce nanocomposites based on various nanoscale fillers (silica/clay), a book that collects all of these scientific findings in one place would be timely and of great interest to both students and scientific researchers, who are concerned with the production, and application of nanocomposites as new innovative materials.
The authors aim is to present the latest research findings on the fabrication, properties and applications of nanofillers as reinforcement in polymer nanocomposites. Particular emphasis will be placed on the introduction of various nanofillers (silica/clay) into different elastomeric polymer matrices that will enhance the properties of these materials and their applications. The book will provide an up-to-date review of major innovations in the field and act as a reference for future research in materials science and engineering, which is highly topical due to the demand to produce more sustainable and eco-friendly innovative advanced materials from elastomeric polymers.
Rahman, MD Rezaur: - Ts. Dr. Md Rezaur Rahman is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Energy Sustainability, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Malaysia. Since 2012, he has also served as a Visiting Research Fellow at the Faculty of Engineering, Tokushima University, Japan. His academic journey includes experience as a teaching assistant at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) and as a Research Project Leader under the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education. In 2015, he was appointed as an External Supervisor at the Faculty of Engineering, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia. Dr. Rahman holds a Ph.D. from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak and brings over 12 years of experience in teaching, research, and industry collaboration. His research expertise spans conducting polymers, nanocomposites, and advanced materials, including graphene, nanoclay, fire retardants, and nanocellulose-reinforced polymer composites. He has made significant contributions to the development of hybrid-filled polymer blends and the chemical modification of lignocellulosic fibers such as jute, coir, and kenaf. To date, Dr. Rahman has authored seven books, 20 book chapters, and over 200 articles in international journals, establishing himself as a prominent researcher in polymer science and nanotechnology. He is also listed in Stanford University's Top 2% Scientists list of the world's most cited scientists.
