Abstract
Nacre-mimetics hold great promise as mechanical
high-performance and functional materials. Here we
demonstrate large progress of mechanical and functional
properties of self-assembled polymer/nanoclay
nacre-mimetics by using synthetic nanoclays with aspect
ratios covering three orders in magnitude (25-3,500). We
establish comprehensive relationships among structure
formation, nanostructuration, deformation mechanisms and
mechanical properties as a function of nanoclay aspect
ratio, and by tuning the viscoelastic properties of the
soft phase via hydration. Highly ordered, large-scale
nacre-mimetics are obtained even for low aspect ratio
nanoplatelets and show pronounced inelastic deformation
with very high toughness, while those formed by
ultralarge nanoplatelets exhibit superb stiffness and
strength, previously only reachable for highly
crosslinked materials. Regarding functionalities, we
report formerly impossible glass-like transparency, and
excellent gas barrier considerably exceeding earlier
nacre-mimetics based on natural nanoclay. Our study
enables rational design of future high-performance
nacre-mimetic materials and opens avenues for
ecofriendly, transparent, self-standing and strong
advanced barrier materials.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 5967 |
Journal | Nature Communications |
Volume | 6 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2015 |
MoE publication type | A1 Journal article-refereed |
Keywords
- Biomimetic synthesis
- Nanoscale materials