e-Learning training on nanotechnology for the plastics industry www.tanocomp.eu

1. Extrusion molding Injection molding Coperion ZSK26 Mega-Compounder used for nanocomposite preparation TANOCOMP partners • Carbon nanotubes nanocomposites In the field of composite materials, the interest in carbon nanotubes (CNTs) lies in their light weight, excellent electrical properties and high strength for structural reinforcement which lead to the formation of a low weight and conductive "composite” with high elasticity and resistance to impact. CNTs-based polymer composites with different mechanical properties can be prepared for applications such as automotive parts or space vehicles, lightweight construction materials able to withstand high stresses and vibrations and other industrial applications in different sectors. The strong in-plane graphitic C—C bonds make defect-free multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) exceptionally strong and stiff against axial strains and flexible against non-axial strains. Additionally, nanotubes also exhibit exceptional electrical and thermal conductivities. Many applications, therefore, can be proposed for nanotubes such as additive fibers in lightweight multi-functional composite materials. • Carbon nanotubes market Electron Microscopy images of Glonatech’s multiwall carbon nanotubes Nanotechnology is currently impact businesses aiming at offering new and improved products and processes, as well as allowing companies to innovate and enter new markets. TANOCOMPs targeted applications for the plastics sector • Automotive • Benefits: CO2 reduction, lighter materials, decrease in fuel consumption, stiffer materials • Applications and Uses: light structural materials, paintable plastics, interior and exterior plastic parts • Aeronautics • Benefits: Lower energy needs, CO2 reductionApplications and Uses: Lightweight stronger materials, superhydrophobic coatings • Electronics • Benefits: Providing faster, smaller and enhanced hand held devices Applications and Uses: Advanced display technologies with conductive nanomaterials, quantum computing, printable and flexible electronics, transparent thin films • Packaging • Benefits: New materials for lightweight packaging and storage • Applications and Uses: plastic bottles and boxes, plastic bags and sacks. • Agriculture • Benefits: self-cleaning, anti-bacterial and antifouling properties, enhanced mechanical performance. • Applications and Uses: water and air purification systems, anti-misting systems, sewage and irrigation pipes • Sporting Goods and recreation • Benefits: Stronger and durable products, enhanced fabrics, textiles embedded with sensors • Applications and Uses: tennis balls and rackets, hockey sticks, cricket bats, lighter bicycles • and many more … Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) of MWCNTs (LEFT), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) of MWCNTs (RIGHT). • CNTs compounding for Masterbatchesproduction • CNT nanocomposite molding techniques Experimental data of the mechanical properties (Tensile strength and Young’s modulus improvement %) of polypropylene (PP) and carbon nanotube nanocomposites (LEFT). Experimental data of ultimate tensile strength of polystyrene (PS) nanocomposites with two different types of multiwall carbon nanotubes, pristine and functionalized (RIGHT). e-Learning training on nanotechnology for the plastics industry www.tanocomp.eu This project is co-financed by the European Commission This communication reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.