Influence of nanoparticles on the polymer chain dynamics in model polymer nanocomposites

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The aim of the proposed project Is to identify the effect of added nanoparticles on the polymer chain dynamics in nanocomposites. The investigated model nanocomposites consist of polymer-stabilized nanoparticles that show no aggregation even at the highest filling ratios. This allows for the first time a quantitative investigation of nanocomposite properties without the interfering influence of nanoparticle aggregation. The project will in particular focus on nanoparticle-induced retardation of polymer chain dynamics and its effect on the dynamic-mechanical properties of the nanocomposite. Special attention is given to the polymer layer covering the nanoparticles which mediates the interactions between the nanoparticles and the polymer matrix is expected to play a keyrole in the structure-property relation of nanocomposites. The structure of this layer, I.e. its density and thickness, can be well controlled synthetically. It is expected that these studies provide a fundamental understanding of the relevant mechanisms leading to the frequently reported high efficiency of added nanoparticles on the mechanical properties of nanocompsoites.