Functional Polymeric Membrane Containing Inorganic Nanoparticle: Recent Advances and Applications

ABSTRACT

Considerable industrial and academic interest is garnered by polymer/inorganic nanoparticle composites in technical applications. In this respect, inorganic nanoparticles such as silica, titania, and zinc oxide are dispersed in polymer matrices. Tribological behavior and high-impact resistance of nanoparticles have opened new opportunities for polymeric membranes. Current article overviews research in the field of inorganic nanoparticle-reinforced polyetherimide, polyvinyl alcohol, poly(etheretherketone), polylactic acid, and polyvinyl chloride. The membranes were fabricated through distillation precipitation, solution casting, and microwave-assisted protocol. Property–structure relationship of polymer/inorganic nanoparticle membranes and potential applications in medical, fuel cell, and gas separation have been discussed.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

KEYWORDS:

• Fuel cell
• gas separation
• inorganic nanoparticle
• polymeric membrane