Читать книгу Metal Oxide Nanocomposites - Группа авторов - Страница 29

Thermoplastics have both 1-D and 2-D molecular structure and they tend to soften at an elevated temperature and show exaggerated melting point [6]. This process of softening can be reversed to regain its properties during cooling, which facilitates the processing of composite materials. The presence of reinforcements can minimize the tendency of shape loosening for the composite material. The thermoplastic materials do not require any chemical reactions for their synthesis, which causes unnecessary release of gases and heat. Figure 2.3 shows different kinds of thermoplastics materials.

Thermoplastics resins are generally used as molding compounds. The fibers are randomly dispersed in thermoplastics, and so the reinforcement is isotropic but directionality can be achieved using molding processes [7]. The heat resistance in thermoplastics can be increased by the addition of filler, however, a loss in strength at elevated temperature can occur. Because of their fascinating physico-chemical properties such as toughness, rigidity, and resistance to creep, thermoplastics have evolved as a material of choice in the fabrication of automotive control panels and electronic products encasement. The reinforced thermoplastics are readily available and can be easily transformed into desired shape, thereby facilitating the fabrication of bulky components [8].

Figure 2.3 Types of thermoplastics.