Open Access Nano Express

Double In Situ Approach for the Preparation of Polymer Nanocomposite with Multi-functionality

De-Yi Wang1, Yan-Peng Song1, Jun-Sheng Wang1, Xin-Guo Ge1, Yu-Zhong Wang1*, Anna A Stec2 and T Richard Hull2*

Author Affiliations

1 Center for Degradable and Flame-Retardant Polymeric Materials, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 610064, Chengdu, China

2 Centre for Fire and Hazards Science, School of Forensic and Investigative Science, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE, UK

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Nanoscale Research Letters 2009, 4:303-306 doi:10.1007/s11671-008-9242-1

Published: 23 January 2009

Abstract

A novel one-step synthetic route, the double in situ approach, is used to produce both TiO2nanoparticles and polymer (PET), and simultaneously forming a nanocomposite with multi-functionality. The method uses the release of water during esterification to hydrolyze titanium (IV) butoxide (Ti(OBu)4) forming nano-TiO2in the polymerization vessel. This new approach is of general significance in the preparation of polymer nanocomposites, and will lead to a new route in the synthesis of multi-functional polymer nanocomposites.

Keywords:
In situ polymerization; Nanocomposites; Polyesters; Flame retardance; Fire retardant