Summary, Conclusions and Future Trends

In this chapter the major influencing factors of the mechanical properties of polymer nanocomposites were briefly discussed. 

Different uses of nanoreinforcements in structural composites were presented such as nanocomposite fibers, nano-enhancements in conventional composites, nano-enhancements in all-polymer composites and singlepolymer nanocomposites. 

Nanoclay/polypropylene composites are being used as functional parts in automobiles and only a single company. General Motors, is using about 660,000 lbs of nanocomposite material per year [2], This is a clear indication of the technological impact of the use of nanocomposites in industrial applications. 

Although a huge number of works have been published about the use of nano-scaled reinforcements in polymeric systems, and most of the major influencing factors on the mechanical performance of the resulting nanocomposites have been identified, some problems still have to be resolved. 

The development of new and more efficient methods of dispersion and synthesis of nanoparticles can increase the mechanical properties of the resultant nanocomposites, which will ultimately lead to high structural applications. 

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