Revelation of intertwining organic and inorganic fractal structures in polymer coatings

Abstract

X-ray microtomography and serial block face scanning electron microscopy are used to reveal independent clusters of inorganic particles embedded within a polymer. These clusters are interpenetrating, of varying size, and have fractal dimensions that strongly influence transport and structure–property relations. This interpretation forms a baseline for designing hybrid materials for applications in self-healing, drug delivery, and membranes.