Synthetic strategies for polymer-based nanocomposites particles

Authors: A.C.C. Esteves and A.M.V. Barros-Timmons. The current chapter focuses on synthetic approaches reported in the last decade regarding the preparation of polymer based nanocomposite particles, featuring potential bio-applications. In composite materials especial attention must be devoted to interfaces in order to improve the compatibility between the inorganic/organic components. Hence the main approaches for the surface modification of inorganic particles are firstly described. Secondly, chemical strategies involving the in situ preparation of one of the composite components are reviewed through typical examples from the recent literature. The advantages and drawbacks of each approach are discussed and the high potential of chemical methods to prepare an enormous variety of polymer based nanocomposites are highlighted. Particular emphasis is given to the recent controlled/living polymerization methods which allow preparing the polymer component with controlled characteristics, directly from the surface of the inorganic nanoparticles. Finally the functionalization of polymer based nanocomposites for prospective bio-applications is addressed.