Several advanced techniques are employed to characterize polymer nanocomposites:
1. [Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)](): TEM provides high-resolution images of the nanofillers within the polymer matrix, allowing for detailed examination of dispersion and morphology.
2. [Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)](): SEM offers surface morphology details and helps in understanding the nanofillers' distribution.
3. [Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)](): AFM measures the surface roughness and can provide information about the interfacial interactions.
4. [X-ray Diffraction (XRD)](): XRD is used to determine the crystalline structure and the degree of exfoliation of nanoclays within the polymer matrix.
5. [Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)](): FTIR helps in identifying chemical interactions between the polymer and the nanofillers.
6. [Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA)](): TGA assesses the thermal stability and composition of the nanocomposite.
