The list of uses and potential uses of a-zirconium phosphate (ZrP) is quite extensive, but among the most promising ones are ion-exchange, catalysis, photoinduced charge separation, drug delivery, biosensors, and fuel cells, among many others. In order to improve the applicability of these materials, surface modifications of the nanoplatelets are highly desirable. Each modification can be tailored for an specific application. We will describe the modification of the surface of ZrP with different groups, such as silanes, epoxides and different metals. The resulting materials were characterized by XRPD, FTIR, AFM, TEM, XPS, and SIMS, among other techniques. The synthesized materials were used for different applications, including drug delivery, emulsifiers, nanofillers in polymer based nanocomposites and as compatibilizing agents in non-compatible polymer blends. The complete synthesis, characterization, and applications of these materials will be presented.

Surface functionalized zirconium phosphates: A unique class of functional materials

247th National Meeting (2014)

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