Sonochemical synthesis of cetyl trimethylammonium bromide modified halloysite nanotubes-polystyrene nanocomposites by solution casting method

Abstract

This paper reports the surface modification of halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) using cetyl trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and propitious incorporation of CTAB-HNTs into polystyrene matrix by ultrasound-assisted solution casting method. The effect of surface modification and sonication on the structure, morphology and thermal behaviour of the modified halloysite nanotubes and synthesized nanocomposites was also investigated. X-ray diffraction data stipulated increase in d-spacing on surface modification and revealed complete exfoliation as a result of sonication. Scanning electron microscopy portrayed uniform distribution of clay in the polymer matrix due to combined effect of surface modification as well as sonication. Fourier transform and infrared results manifested halloysite nanotubes, cetyl trimethylammonium bromides and polystyrene major peaks in the synthesized nanocomposites confirming intercalation of cetyl trimethylammonium bromide in halloysite nanotubes interlayers and encapsulation of CTAB-HNT into the polymer, DSC analysis displayed enhancement in glass transition temperature (Tg) indicating increase in thermal stability, hence these can improved properties with potential applications. � 2017, Chemical Publishing Co. All rights reserved.