Effect of adsorbed/intercalated anionic dyes into the mechanical properties of PVA: Layered zinc hydroxide nitrate nanocomposites

Zinc hydroxide nitrate (ZHN) was adsorbed with anions of blue dyes (Chicago sky blue, CSB; Evans blue, EB; and Niagara blue, NB) and intercalated with anions of orange dyes (Orange G, OG; Orange II, OII; methyl orange, MO). Transparent, homogeneous and colored nanocomposite films were obtained by casting after dispersing the pigments (dye-intercalated/adsorbed into LHSs) into commercial poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA). The films were characterized by XRD, UV–Vis spectroscopy, and mechanical testing. The mechanical properties of the PVA compounded with the dye-intercalated/adsorbed ZHN were evaluated, and reasonable increases in Young’s modulus and ultimate tensile strength were observed, depending on the amount and choice of layered filler. These results demonstrate the possibility of using a new class of layered hydroxide salts intercalated and adsorbed with anionic dyes to prepare multifunctional polymer nanocomposite materials.

Zinc hydroxide nitrate was adsorbed with anions of the blue dyes, intercalated with anions of the orange dyes, and dispersed into PVA producing colored nanocomposites with improved mechanical properties.Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (107 K)Download as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights
► Zinc hydroxide nitrate was adsorbed/intercalated with anionic blue and orange dyes.
► Transparent, homogeneous, and colored nanocomposite films were obtained by casting.
► The films presented increases in Young’s modulus and ultimate tensile strength.
► LHSs can be used to prepare multifunctional polymer nanocomposite materials.