1.1 Introduction
Thermal conductivity of polymers is an important thermal property for both polymer applications and processing. Polymers typically have intrinsic thermal conductivity much lower than those for metals or ceramic materials, and therefore are good thermal insulators. Further enhancement of this thermal insulating quality can be achieved by foaming polymers. In other applications which require higher thermal conductivity, such as in electronic packaging and encapsulations, satellite devices, and in areas where good heat dissipation, low thermal expansion and light weight are needed, polymers reinforced with fillers, organic or inorganic, are becoming more and more common in producing advanced polymer composites for these applications (Hodgin & Estes, 1999; Tavman, 2004; Lee & Eun, 2004; Liu & Mather, 2004; Ishida & Heights, 1999; Frank & Phillip, 2002; Hermansen, 2001; Ishida, 2000). Most polymeric materials are processed and fabricated at elevated temperatures, often above their melting temperatures. This process may be long and expensive because of the low thermal conductivity of polymers. Subsequently, the cooling process or annealing may also be controlled by heat transport properties of polymers, which eventually affect the physical properties of the materials. One example is crystalline polymers, for which the structural and morphological features may be significantly changed with the speed of cooling. Careful consideration in designing polymer processing is vital to achieve desired properties.
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Limitations of the Study and Definition of technical terms.
1.2 Purpose of Study
The study evaluates the impact of Nano Particle on Thermal Conductivity of Composites. It covers the Modeling of thermal conductivity in composites, and the applications would benefit from the use of polymers with enhanced thermal conductivity.
1.3 Significance of Study
This study will be of immense benefit to researchers who intend to know more on this study and can also be used by non-researchers to build more on their research work. This study contributes to knowledge and could serve as a guide for other study.
1.4 Scope of Study
The study focuses on the evaluation of the impact of Nano Particle on Thermal Conductivity of Composites.
1.5 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Research material: availability of research material is a major setback to the scope of the study.
- Frequent power failure: This made the researcher append more money on fuel to ensure sustainable power.
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