Nanocomposites for gas barrier applications: Governing factors, single and coupled effects, new routes to optimise the function properties

The objectives of this feature paper are to analyse, from our work results, gas barrier properties of nanocomposites made from different nanofiller types and synthesis routes. An overview of the governing parameters will be made and it will be shown how these different parameters can be adapted or combined to optimise these functional properties. It will also be demonstrated the interest of modelling approaches (going from analytical to numerical 3D finite element modelling) when used in complementarity with experimental studies for a better understanding of the transport mechanisms involved as for the determination of the most suitable morphologies for a given function property level. The interest of exploiting gas transport as a tool to probe the materials, especially the interphases, will also be highlighted. Finally new development routes under investigation will be given.

Automated summary

The objectives of this feature paper are to analyze the gas barrier properties of nanocomposites made from different nanofiller types and synthesis routes based on our work results. It will provide an overview of the governing parameters and demonstrate how they can be adapted or combined to optimize functional properties. The paper will also highlight the benefits of using modelling approaches in combination with experimental studies to better understand transport mechanisms and determine suitable morphologies for specific functional property levels. The importance of utilizing gas transport as a tool to probe materials, particularly interphases, will be emphasized. Finally, new development routes under investigation will be presented.