Polymer NanocompositesGuest Editors:
Karen I. Winey and Richard A. VaiaPolymer nanocomposites (PNCs) are multicomponent systems in which the major component is a polymer and the minor component has at least one dimension below 100 nm. Small amounts of nanoparticle fillers such as layered silicates or carbon nanotubes can achieve composite properties comparable to those achieved only with much larger fractions of conventional fillers. The smaller filler amount in nanocomposites not only facilitates processing and reduces component weight, but also provides value-added properties such as optical clarity, self-passivation, increased flame-resistance, increased resistance to oxidation and ablation, and reduced permeability. This issue of MRS Bulletin focuses on polymer nanocomposites containing nanoscale clays and various carbon nanotubes to illustrate the status of this rapidly evolving research and development enterprise. We invite you to view the introductory article for this issue, Polymer Nanocomposites by Karen I. Winey and Richard A. Vaia, Guest Editors.
Also in this issue is the technical feature “Pb-Free Solder: New Materials Considerations for Microelectronics Processing” by Borgesen et al. In this article, the impact of solidification on the microstructure and therefore the mechanical properties of lead-free solders such as SnAgCu will be addressed in the context of microelectronics processing.
On the Cover | Masthead
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