Journal of Applied Research in Chemical-Polymer Engineering

Abstract This review article focuses on recent advancements in enhancing the mechanical, thermal, electrical, and corrosion-resistant properties of epoxy resin through the incorporation of surface-modified zinc oxide nanoparticles. The main objective of this review is to highlight the role of nanoparticle surface modification and weight fraction on the performance of epoxy nanocomposites and to provide a comprehensive overview of the findings reported in previous studies. In this review, scientific articles and experimental studies on epoxy nanocomposites containing zinc oxide nanoparticles were systematically analyzed. Selected studies were evaluated based on criteria such as the type of nanoparticle surface modification, dispersion and mixing methods, nanoparticle weight fraction, and the effects of these parameters on the mechanical and thermal properties of the epoxy matrix. Additionally, the findings related to hybrid nanocomposite structures and their synergistic effects were summarized. The review indicates that uniform dispersion of nanoparticles in the epoxy matrix improves interfacial adhesion, prevents stress concentration and crack propagation, and consequently enhances the overall strength and durability of the material. Most studies suggest that low nanoparticle loadings (0.25–1 wt.%) promote better dispersion and improved mechanical properties, whereas higher loadings may cause particle agglomeration and reduced performance. Surface modification of nanoparticles with silane or amine groups enhances compatibility with the polymer matrix, improves stress transfer, and increases thermal stability. Furthermore, recent studies show that hybrid nanocomposite structures create synergistic effects, simultaneously enhancing multiple performance characteristics. Overall, the incorporation of surface-modified nanoparticles into epoxy resin demonstrates significant potential for developing advanced materials in electronics, photonics, marine, medical, and aerospace applications.

Abstract Research Subject: Poor mechanical strengths and lack of thermal stabilities of hydrogels confine their extensive practical applications in many areas. The growing scientific need for solving this problem and achievement to the hydrogels with improved properties has led to the design and production of the nanocomposite hydrogels.
Research Approach: The polymeric networks of nanocomposite hydrogels compared to the ordinary hydrogels have improved elasticity and rheological properties. Other points that increase the importance of structural studies of nanocomposite hydrogels are the high strength of these materials versus the application of external forces, as well as maintaining its structure against increasing of temperatures. In this regard, the type and amounts of nanomaterial, the preparation method and formation of hydrogel network have a significant role in improving the physical, chemical and biological properties of hydrogels, and, it must be noted that these parameters will depend on the application of nanocomposite hydrogels. This also highlights the need for the production of nanocomposite tailored hydrogels. Therefore, orientation of the range of nanomaterials, the preparation method and product identification, along with sufficient information on the application of these materials, might have an important role in ensuring the success of these materials, requiring comprehensive library research and studies on polymerization processes, morphology and rheology.
Main Results: In this review article, the scientific advances in the field of nanocomposite hydrogels, focusing on its types based on the type of nanoparticles, its properties, preparation methods, identification methods with a new perspective on rheology, thermal analysis and morphology is investigated. Finally, the applicability of these materials is collected in a comprehensive table in various fields such as tissue engineering, enhanced oil recovery, agriculture, and etc…