Boron nitride nanotubes: Functionalization and composites

Abstract

Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) are novel because of their wide band gap, superb mechanical properties, high thermal conductivity and robustness to oxidation. These features make BNNTs promising nanofillers that lead to the significant mechanical reinforcement and improvement of thermal conductivity of a composite. However, only in recent years, benefiting from the development of effective syntheses of BNNTs, have the follow-up chemical functionalization and composite studies of BNNTs been initiated. To achieve better solubility and processability of BNNTs, various methods have been developed to functionalize BNNTs via different interactions. Moreover, BNNT polymeric and ceramic composites have been fabricated and property improvements have indeed been documented. In this feature article, we summarize the recent progress in the chemistry and composite research of BNNTs. © 2008 The Royal Society of Chemistry.