Polyurethane/polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane nanocomposite: trends and perspectives.

Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) is an inorganic-organic nanostructure. POSS nanocage possesses silica core and organic functionalities at corners. POSS has been familiarized with various thermoplastic and thermosetting polymeric matrices. Polyurethane is an imperative polymer used with POSS nanofiller through physical mixing or chemical interaction methods. Inclusion of POSS may advance thermal, mechanical, rheological, crystallinity, morphological, non-flammability and other characteristics of polyurethane nanocomposite. This state-of-the-art article précises design and development of polyurethane/POSS nanocomposite. Versatility of POSS and compatibilization effect have been deliberated on properties and performance of polyurethane. Recent progress of polyurethane/POSS nanocomposite toward non-flammability, anti-corrosion and biomedical relevance has been conversed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]