Abstract
The carbon particles in micro- and nanometric size are the prominently used as particulate filler in polymer matrix to improve mechanical properties. The carbon black is the most widely used cost-effective filler, but require higher loading levels to get optimum mechanical properties. Researchers all over the world are investigating the various nanoforms of carbon like Fullerenes, Carbon nanofibres, Carbon nanotubes, Nano diamond and Graphene as fillers in polymer matrix to improve mechanical properties at low loading levels. These nano-sized carbon particles, impart additional properties like improved electrical conductivity, reduced friction, higher heat dissipation and improved hydrophobic nature, etc., which makes them preferred candidate despite of higher cost. New methods for functionalization and dispersion are attempted to capitalize the full potential of these nanomaterials. This chapter gives a bird’s eye view of progress made in the preparation of these nanocomposites, advanced functionalization, and dispersion methods, and their impact on the mechanical properties of polymer nanocomposites. The obstacles in converting lab-scale achievements into large-scale applications also discussed and suitable suggestions are given.