In Situ Emulsion Polymerization to Multifunctional Polymer Nanocomposites: A Review

Abstract Polymer nanocomposites are a class of composite materials containing polymer continuous phase as matrix and inorganic nanoparticles as fillers. Combining the advantages of both polymer and nanofillers, polymer nanocomposites can yield some desirable functionalities that cannot be achieved by the individual components, thus exhibiting tremendous potential for a variety of applications. However, their performances markedly depend on the dispersion and distribution of nanofillers in the polymer matrix. Recently, in situ emulsion polymerization has been demonstrated to be a powerful approach for the preparation of multifunctional polymer nanocomposites with good dispersion and homogeneous distribution of nanofillers. In this review, the fundamentals of polymer nanocomposites and their preparation strategies are briefly discussed, and then are comprehensively summarized recent advances in the design, preparation, functionalization, and applications of polymer nanocomposites via in situ emulsion polymerization. The particular focus is placed on the strategies for achieving homogeneous and good dispersion of nanofillers within polymer matrixes. Moreover, the current challenges and future opportunities of in situ emulsion polymerization to polymer nanocomposites are discussed to motivate future contributions and explore new possibilities.