Epoxy resin-based nanocomposite films with highly oriented BN nanosheets prepared using a nanosecond-pulse electric field

Abstract

Facile orientation of boron nitride (BN) with high anisotropy in epoxy resin-based nanocomposite films was performed in a polyepoxide matrix using a nanosecond-pulse electric field to generate a high electric flux. Control of the BN anisotropy was achieved in the polymer without damaging the composite films or requiring surface modification of the BN. The degree of BN orientation perpendicular to the nanocomposite film plane, which was parallel to the electric flux, could be controlled by applying the nanosecond pulse for different lengths of time before cross-linking. The resulting composite films with oriented BN nanosheets manifested improved thermal diffusivity compared to a composite prepared without orientation. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.