Fabrication of organic-inorganic nanocomposites by colloidal processing

Abstract

Colloidal processing has been widely used for many industrial application. Electrophoretic deposition (EPD) is an important colloidal technique, which plays an important role in the fabrication of organic-inorganic composites. In this work, advanced dispersing agents with excellent adsorption, dispersion and film forming properties have been developed. The adsorption mechanism and the deposition kinetics of EPD have been studied. It is shown that catechol and salicylic groups of dispersants can form chelation bonding with metal atoms on inorganic particle surface and provide particle charging, dispersion and deposition. The aromatic dispersants can adsorb on carbon nanotubes due to π-π interactions. The long chain ionic polymeric dispersants were investigated, which provide efficient electrosteric stabilization. The film forming properties of dispersants allow dispersants with dispersed materials to deposit and form composite films on the substrate. Universal dispersing agents have been developed for the colloidal processing. These dispersants show possibilities to adsorb and disperse various organic and inorganic materials and pave the way for the fabrication of multi-functional materials for various applications. The composite materials, prepared using new dispersants showed promising corrosion protection of metals, flame retardant and energy storage properties.