Synthesis and characterization of Sb–SnO2/kaolinites nanoparticles

In this paper, we reported the synthesis of composite conductive powders of antimony-doped tin oxide (Sb–SnO2) coated onto kaolinite. Structure and morphology of the samples were systematically characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high-resolution TEM (HRTEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS). The results showed that Sb–SnO2 nanoparticles (< 10 nm) were successfully coated as thin layers on the surface of kaolinite. The antimony-doped tin oxide/kaolinite (ATK) composites retained the flake morphology like the original kaolinite and had a resistivity of 273.2 Ω·cm. Sb–SnO2 layers were proved to attach to the kaolinite surface via the Sn–O–Si or Sn–O–Al bonds. The growth mode of Sb–SnO2 layers onto the kaolinite was investigated.

► Sb–SnO2 thin layers are coated onto kaolinite flakes to form conductive powders.
► Powders retain the flake morphology with a resistivity of 273.2 Ω·cm.
► Sb3+ exists onto the flake while Sb5+ mainly replacing Sn4+ lattice.