Alpha-zirconium phosphate (α-ZrP) nanoplatelets were exfoliated using tetra-n-butylammonium hydroxide (TBA). α-ZrP-TBA nanoplatelets can both initiate anionic polymerization of epoxy monomers and serve as reinforcing agents for the epoxy matrix. As a catalytic curing agent, α-ZrP-TBA shows a similar reactivity at high temperature but better storage stability than imidazole at room temperature. The epoxy/α-ZrP-TBA nanocomposites exhibit greatly increased Young's modulus of 4.3 GPa, while maintaining a relatively high glass transition temperature of 110 °C. In addition, epoxy/α-ZrP-TBA nanocomposites are highly toughenable. With an additional incorporation of 3 vol% of rubber particles, K<sub>IC</sub> is increased by 180%. The usefulness of the present study for the preparation of high-performance thermosetting polymers is discussed.

Self-curing epoxy nanocomposites containing alpha-zirconium phosphate nanoplatelets

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.