Polymer nanocomposites for micro-components

III-4: Polymer nanocomposites for micro-component

Lu Xuehong (SME, NTU) and Zhao Jianhong (SIMTech)

Abstract

There are increasing demands in recent years in manufacturing of polymer micro-components due to the worldwide trend slanting towards miniaturization. For some micro-components with stringent requirements on both polymer flowability and thermo-mechanical properties, conventional thermoplastics, either unfilled or filled, fall short. Polymer nanocomposites may provide enhanced thermo-mechanical properties required for micro-components without sacrificing the resin’s inherent processability. In some cases, mechanical and flow properties, which are normally considered to be inversely related, may be improved cooperatively. We propose to develop novel polymer/clay nanocomposites and polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) based hybrid materials specially tailored for precision molding of micro-components. Our previous work on polymer nanocomposites and micro-molding are reviewed. Relevant scientific issues and challenges are also addressed.