Session: PMSE/POLY Poster Session:

Epoxy nanocomposites containing exfoliated 2-D nanoplatelets at high loadings is difficult to achieve due to the significant energetic and entropic barriers required to overcome for nanoplatelets exfoliation. Exfoliated α-zirconium phosphate (ZrP) using proton exchanged polyetheramines as surfactants in epoxy resins have been well studied for decades with good exfoliation and improved properties. However, these nanocomposites exhibit significant reduction in glass transition temperature (T_g) due to dissociation of polyetheramine surfactant from ZrP surface which interferes with the epoxy curing process. In this study, ZrP surfaces with covalently bound epoxide functional groups were used to achieve ZrP exfoliation in epoxy without sacrificing T_g. By dual epoxide functionalization of ZrP, it is possible to achieve good dispersion and self-assembly of ZrP at high loadings in epoxy. The dual epoxide functionalization approach involves only simple chemistry with minimal organic fraction to achieve exfoliation in epoxy. Furthermore, this methodology allows for multi-functional applications in a controlled manner. The same approach described in this work can be applied for dispersion of other nanoparticles in different polymeric matrices for structural and functional applications.

Abstract Graphics

TEM of different loading of ZrP in epoxy matrix

TEM of different loading of ZrP in epoxy matrix

Hung-Jue Sue

Texas A&M

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