Vapor phase processing: a novel approach for fabricating functional hybrid materials

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Optimizing material properties for diverse technological applications (mechanics, electronics, optics) is a key challenge.
• Emerging applications require materials integrating properties of polymers/biopolymers with metals/ceramics, necessitating functional hybrid materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review vapor phase processing routes for synthesizing functional hybrid materials.
• To highlight achievements and potential applications in mechanical, electronic, optical, and biomedical fields.

Main Methods:

• Focus on vapor phase processing, including atomic layer deposition (ALD), molecular layer deposition (MLD), vapor phase infiltration (VPI), and chemical vapor deposition (CVD).

Main Results:

• Vapor phase routes offer compatibility with industrial processes.
• Fabricated hybrid materials and nanocomposites exhibit exceptional synergistic properties.
• Research is nascent but shows significant promise.

Conclusions:

• Vapor phase synthesis is a promising approach for advanced functional hybrid materials.
• These materials have potential in flexible electronics, energy conversion/storage, and functional textiles.