Iranian Scientists Use Polymeric Nanocomposites as Substitute for Steel Tanks

Iranian researchers from Nuclear Science and Technology Research Institute (NSTRI) in association with researchers from University of Tehran succeeded in the production of polymeric nanocomposite with high thermal, chemical and mechanical resistance.

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2015-09-28

Nowadays, the creation of nuclear wastes and radioactive contaminants is inevitable due to the significant progresses in nuclear industry and its application in various industries and medical and agricultural issues. It is necessary to store or expulse radioactive wastes according to specific regulations due to the unique properties of radioactive materials.

Storage and conservation are among the most important operations in the management of radioactive wastes because it is not possible to release those materials in the environment due to very long lifetime of some of radioactive materials. Long-term and safe burial of radioactive wastes in the depth of the earth is the most common method in this regard. There are advantages in the application of polymers, specially polymeric nanocomposites, in order to build tanks to store radioactive wastes in comparison with the application of metals or cement. Very high ratio of strength to weight, appropriate chemical resistance, easy process and cost effectiveness are among the advantages of polymeric nanocomposites.

The aim of the research was to study the properties of polymeric nanocomposites reinforced with clay nanoparticles, and to evaluate their properties after being reinforced with carbon fibers. The electron beam effect of the produced nanoparticles has also been investigated in this research. The nanocomposite can be a good replacement for the existing steel tanks and they lead to economic saving due to their lower weight.

Source: Nanotechnology Now

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