Nanodiamond reinforcement effects in thermosetting matrices—design, functional features and significance

Nanodiamond has been categorized among remarkable zero dimensional nanocarbon. This carbon nanoparticle has been applied as important nanofiller in the polymeric matrices. This state-of-the-art review article portrays fundamentals, physical properties, and prospects of nanodiamond filled thermosetting matrices. Among thermosets, most research efforts have been reported on the nanodiamond filled epoxy and polyurethane matrices. Consequently, the epoxy/nanodiamond and polyurethane/nanodiamond nanocomposites have been designed. The nanodiamond nanoparticle addition in polymers caused microstructural variations and enhancements in mechanical, thermal, wear, adhesion, and related advanced features. The property improvement was observed due to the nanofiller dispersion, matrix-nanofiller interactions, and interface formation. Type of thermosetting polymer, curing agent, nanodiamond content, nanodiamond functionalities, and processing method define the final nanocomposite architecture, morphology, and ensuing characteristics. Consequently, the high-tech epoxy/nanodiamond nanocomposites and polyurethane/nanodiamond nanocomposites exposed capability toward technological relevance like coatings, microwave absorption, and biomedical. As few thermosetting matrices have been used with the nanodiamond nanofillers so far, more comprehensive future efforts are needed to disclose the actual potential of thermosetting polymer/nanodiamond nanocomposites.