Block Copolymer Nanocomposites: Perspectives for Tailored Functional Materials

Heterogeneous materials in which the characteristic length scale of the filler material is in the nanometer range-i.e., nanocomposites-is currently one of the fastest growing areas of materials research. Polymer nanocomposites have expanded beyond the original scope of polymer-nanocrystal dispersions for refractive-index tuning or clay-filled homopolymers primarily pursued for mechanical reinforcement, to include a wide range of applications. This article highlights recent research efforts in the field of structure formation in block copolymer-based nanocomposite materials, and points out opportunities for novel materials based on inclusion of different types of nanoparticles. The use of block copolymers…