POSS-based IPN nanocomposites

The term interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) refers to the coexisting of two or more chemically distinct networks. These cocontinuous interlocking networks possess homogeneity and compatibility down to segmental level. On the other hand, a polymer blend is often a mixture of noncross-linked polymers. Owing to better amalgamation, IPN materials have enhanced mechanical, thermal, conducting, viscoelastic, and other physical characteristics, compared with the polymer blends. Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) is an outstanding nano-filler that has received significant attention in recent decades regarding polymers. Similar to other nano-fillers, POSS has been reinforced in IPN. This chapter reviews the effect of POSS nano-filler on processing, properties, and solicitations of IPN/POSS nanocomposites. Dramatic improvements have been observed in the features of interpenetrating polymer network-based nanocomposites with increasing POSS content. POSS reinforced IPN nanocomposites have been investigated for cross-link density, storage modulus, glass transition temperature, damping, strength, impact, and other mechanical features. Principally, the interpenetrating polymer network-based nanocomposites offer fine interfacial adhesion and secondary IPN-POSS interactions. Moreover, the applications of IPN/POSS nanocomposites are wide-ranging, including high-performance engineering materials for coatings, sensors, actuators, shape memory materials, and other areas of biomedical relevance. Finally, the functional and future prospects of high-performance IPN/POSS nanocomposites will be summarized, anticipating progress in this emerging area of POSS-based nanocomposite technology.