Conductive Polymer Composites

Polymer composites are widely used, primarily for their structural and mechanical properties, low cost, part design flexibility, and light weight. However, their electrical and thermal properties are also important, such as in diverse electrical and electronic applications. There are a large variety of discontinuous fillers that vary in size and aspect ratio providing a wide array of potential properties. The key is to control the underlying filler structure and distribution to provide the desired electrical and thermal properties. This book systematically discusses the thermoplastic and thermoset polymers and typical fillers used in practice. The importance of polymer processing is discussed including the mixing, extrusion, and molding of polymer products. Applications include fuel cell and battery components, electrostatic discharge dissipation and electromagnetic interference shielding. Electrically and thermally conductive polymer composites are the result of the resin and filler properties, mixing conditions, flow during forming such as injection or compression molding, and part design (affecting thickness and local material conditions). This book provides an overview of all three facets of material, processing, and properties with the latest research and patent literature. The reader will gain an understanding of the important material and processing parameters such that the material composition and operating conditions can be optimized to provide the targeted properties. The inclusion of a modeling section highlights what can be predicted based on existing models and outline opportunities for research.