Montmorillonite–graphene oxide hybrids and montmorillonite–graphene oxide/epoxy composite: Synthesis, characterization, and properties

The hybrids composed of two kinds of layered solids—functionalized graphene oxide (FGO) and organic montmorillonite (OMMT)—were primarily prepared, following which the epoxy matrix composites reinforced with FGO–OMMT hybrids were synthesized. The microstructure of the hybrids with different MMT/FGO ratios and the physical properties of the nanocomposites filled with the hybrids were investigated. The results indicate that d‐spacing of the hybrids is between that of FGO and OMMT, and the FGO flake‐pillared OMMT structure is observed. Among the hybrids with different OMMT/FGO ratios, the hybrid with the mass ratio of 5:1 presents better dispersibility and enhances the mechanical strength of epoxy‐based composites more effectively. Compared with FGO and OMMT fillers, FGO–OMMT hybrids greatly improve the mechanical property of epoxy, especially the impact strength. However, FGO–OMMT hybrids contribute little to the improvement of thermal stability. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E2084–E2095, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers