The main objective of this course is to offer graduate students an understanding of the differences between polymer nanocomposites and micro- and macro- scale polymer composites.

By the end of the course the students are expected to have explored:

• definitions, types, mechanisms, structure-property relationships of polymer nanocomposites
• importance of the geometry of the nanophases and the quality of their interface with the matrix
• problems and difficulties of the nanophase dispersion during production processes
• necessity of the special equipment for the characterization and testing of polymer nanocomposites
• underlying mechanisms for the mechanical, thermal, chemical, physical behaviors of polymer nanocomposites compared with micro- and macro- scale polymer composites