Sonochemical Functionalization of Boron Nitride Nanomaterials
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MRS Advances © 2019 Materials Research Society DOI: 10.1557/adv.2019.487
Sonochemical Functionalization of Boron Nitride Nanomaterials Haley B. Harrison¹, Jeffrey R. Alston² 1 The University of North Carolina at Greensboro¹, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University ²The Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering Greensboro, North Carolina
Abstract
Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) and hexagonal boron nitride platelets (h-BNs) have received considerable attention for aerospace insulation applications due to their exceptional chemical and thermal stability. Presently, making BN nanomaterials compatible with polymer and composite matrices is challenging. Due to their inert and highly stable structure, h-BN and BNNTs are difficult to covalently functionalize. In this work, we present a novel sonochemical technique that enables covalent attachment of fluoroalkoxy substituents to the surface of BN nanomaterials in a controlled and metered process. Covalent functionalization is confirmed via colloidal stability analysis, FT-IR, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS).
BACKGROUND BNNTs and h-BN are white, large bandgap (5.5-5.8 eV) semiconducting materials[1], with numerous exciting properties such as superior mechanical strength, high oxidation resistance, high thermal conductivity, and neutron shielding capabilities[2]. Improving poor dispersion and interfacial quality of nanomaterials are critical to enhancing the functionality of polymer composites[3]. Unfortunately, due to the unique structure, and chemical and thermal stability of h-BN and BNNTs, standard functionalization methods are either insufficient, or too aggressive, causing damage to particle structure and properties. New controllable functionalization techniques must be explored to advance covalent BNNT surface modification. Development of effective covalent and non-covalent surface modification methods have proven more challenging compared with graphitic materials due to the strength and stability of the B-N covalent bond, and resistance to oxidative treatments[4,
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5]. The current hypothesis in the field is that controlled functionalization of boron nitride nanomaterials is unachievable due to the significant chemical and thermal stability of the B-N bonds. Most functionalization methods presented are uncontrolled, require harsh solvents and conditions, and ultimately destroy the nanostructure of the materials, eliminating the “nano-derived” benefits. Various approaches have been taken to develop functionalized BN nanomaterials with the overall goal being increased solubility and improved interfacial qualities between the BN material and composite matrices[5-8]. Both covalent and non-covalent liquid-phase surface modification methods of nanomaterials have been developed, but these methods requ
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