Solvent Free Synthesis and Characterization of Halloysite-Polypyrrole Nanocomposites

Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) are defined as a two-layered aluminosilicate, chemically similar to kaolinite and bentonite . In recent decades an increasing number of studies have focused on the fabrication of HNT/polymer nanocomposites. In this research, Halloysite-Polypyrrole (HNT-PPy) nanocomposites were synthesized by a facile and environmentally friendly method, wherein pyrrole was polymerized on the surfaces of the halloysite nanotubes via a solid-state, vapour-phase polymerization technique. In this manner, the polypyrrole was not only polymerized on the external surfaces of the halloysite nanotubes but was also intercalated between the halloysite nanotubes layers. Polymerization of the pyrrole monomers absorbed on HNTs nanotubes containing ferric chloride (FeCl3) obtained by the exposure of HNTs with pyrrole vapours . Mixing of oxidant and HNTs done by Ball Milling method without using solvent. Nanocomposites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), electrical conductivity measurements and FTIR spectroscopy

Keywords:

Halloysite , Polypyrrole , Conducting Polymer , Nanocomposites , solvent free synthesis