Maya Blue as natural coloring fillers in a multi-scale polymer-clay nanocomposite

The purpose of this article is to understand the underlying mechanisms of the potential of nanohybrids. Two types of fillers were dispersed in a biocompatible organic matrix, poly-(hydroxyethyl acrylate) (PHEA): either a natural fibrous clay (pristine sepiolite), or a natural nanopigment (Maya Blue). In comparison with the pure polymer, the mechanical properties of the composites have been already greatly improved with the addition a small amount of Maya Blue. However the PHEA/pristine sepiolite nanohybrid gives better results than the PHEA/Maya Blue for the same ratio of fillers. The stress–strain curves (with unloading and reloading) show that the presence of indigo modifies the interactions between the filler and the matrix. These analyses demonstrate that there is a direct correlation between the filler/matrix local interactions, the dispersion of the fillers and some macroscopical mechanical properties.

► Maya Blue pigments as model fillers for an acrylate matrix to form nanocomposites.
► Sonication: a high energy dispersion tool for desagregation of agglomerats of sepiolite.
► Reinforcement of nanocomposite with nanofibers.
► Multi-scale and multifunctional nanohybrids: coloration and strengthening.
► nanocomposites with nanofibers poorly dispersed or individually separated.