Preparation and characterization of epoxy/layered double hydroxides nanocomposites

Epoxy/LiAl layered double hydroxides (LDH) nanocomposites have been synthesized from organic polymer (epoxy) and two-dimensional host materials (LiAl LDHs) by in situ cross-linking polymerization reaction. LiAl LDHs have unique properties like high anionic exchange capacity (AEC), high aspect ratio and good crystallinity. These artificial layered materials are prepared by hydrothermal method. The diameter of the LiAl LDH crystal in powder sample was determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The morphology of epoxy/LiAl LDH nanocomposites were investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and powder X-ray diffraction techniques. TEM shows that pure LiAl LDH was dispersed in epoxy matrix to form sea type intercalated morphology whereas modified LiAl LDH forms both exfoliated and intercalated epoxy/LiAl LDH nanocomposites. The thermal characterizations were carried out by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The properties of epoxy/LDH nanocomposites exhibit better thermal properties as compared to pure epoxy polymer.