Fabrication of thermally conductive polymer composites based on hexagonal boron nitride: recent progresses and prospects

Abstract Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) and its nanomaterials are among the most promising candidates for use in thermal management applications because of their high thermal conductivity, thermal stability, and good electric insulation, and when used as the conductive fillers, they enhance the overall properties of polymer composites. In this review, the basic concepts of h-BN are introduced, followed by the synthesis of BN nanotubes and BN nanosheets. Then, various novel methods to fabricate h-BN polymer composites with improved thermally conductive paths are discussed. They can be classified into two categories: dispersion and compatibility reinforced and structure formation. In addition, the thermal conducting mechanisms of h-BN composites are proposed. Finally, the advantages and limitations of aforementioned strategies are summarized.