Dielectric properties and applications of POSS-polymer nanocomposites

POSS are interesting new molecules that have unique structural and chemical attributes. A POSS molecule is structured to have a POSS core (Si₈-O₁₂) and pendent organic groups. The POSS core is a rigid 8-silicon 3-D cage. The 8-silicon cage also provides sites for the attachment of different organic groups, which can be reactive, nonreactive, or a mixture of both. Their molecular symmetry, rigidity, and multifunctionality make POSS molecules a good candidate for high-performance dielectric nanocomposites. Low dielectric constant materials, where the dielectric constant K is less than 2, have been demonstrated in multiple POSS polymer nanocomposites. POSS molecules can also lower dielectric loss and improve dielectric breakdown strength.