An overview of kaolin and its potential application in thermosetting polymers

Polymer composites are the backbone of advanced emerging industries and are mostly known for their wide range of applications. Due to their versatile nature and significant utilization in almost all fields, these materials are grabbing and growing the market rapidly. However, such composites, when reinforced with fillers, adds in unique properties and lower production cost. Among the various fillers, kaolin-reinforced polymer composites have garnered significant attention for their exceptional properties and performance. This review deals with the characteristic; mechanical, physical, thermal, electrical, water and moisture resistant properties of a few thermoset polymers, including polyurethane, polyimide, epoxy, phenolic, polyester and cyanate ester incorporated with different forms of kaolin, such as treated, untreated, functionalized compounds. Followed by characterization with XRD, TGA, FTIR, DSC, and SEM analysis techniques and Cone Claorimetry for flame retardant performance testing. The results depicted considerable, and in some cases drastic impact of filler presence on the characteristic polymer properties.