Constructing Hierarchical Polymer Nanocomposites with Strongly Enhanced Thermal Conductivity

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Communication technology advancements necessitate improved electronic packaging materials.
• High thermal conductivity and electrical insulation are critical for these materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and synthesize polyvinyl alcohol/polydopamine-modified boron nitride nanosheet (PVA/BNNS@PDA) nanocomposites.
• To achieve enhanced thermal conductivity, electrical insulation, and flexibility for electronic packaging.

Main Methods:

• Electrospinning, vacuum filtration deposition, and hot pressing were employed.
• Hierarchical structures were created using modified boron nitride nanosheets (BNNS@PDA).

Main Results:

• Achieved ultrahigh in-plane thermal conductivity of 16.6 W/(m·K) at 35.54 wt % BNNS@PDA.
• Demonstrated excellent flexibility, with no cracks after 2000 folds.
• Exhibited a volume resistivity above 10^14 Ω·cm, meeting insulation standards.

Conclusions:

• PVA/BNNS@PDA nanocomposites offer a novel solution for thermal management materials.
• The developed method provides a new perspective for designing advanced electronic packaging materials.