Inorganic nanotubes and fullerene-like nanoparticles: Synthesis, mechanical properties, and applications

In this paper the synthesis of inorganic nanotubes (INT) and to a lesser extent, inorganic fullerene-like nanoparticles (IF) of WS2, which have been recently scaled-up, is discussed in some detail. Subsequently the mechanical properties of IF/INT are summarized, in reference to their remarkable possibility to reinforce polymer matrices and serve as superior solid lubricants. The effect of adding minute amounts of such nanoparticles to various polymer matrices is reviewed with reference to thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers. Possible different applications of such nanocomposites are also briefly discussed. (C) 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim