Enhanced mechanical and photocatalytic performances of epoxy nanocomposites filled with potassium‐modified graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets

Abstract

AbstractThe unique structure and property of K+‐modified graphitic carbon nitride (K‐CN) nanosheets would be beneficial for developing advanced epoxy nanocomposites. However, the compatibility between K‐CN nanosheets and epoxy matrix is a big challenge. In this study, we demonstrate a new and effective method to improve the compatibility of K‐CN nanosheets and epoxy by using 1‐(oxiran‐2‐ylmethyl)‐1H‐indole (IN) as surface modifier through the cation‐π interaction between K+ on the surface of K‐CN nanosheets and indole group of IN. In addition, the covalent bond between epoxy group of IN and amino group of curing agent could be used to participate in the formation of the epoxy network. When the content of K‐CN nanosheets is 0.5 wt%, the tensile strength of prepared epoxy nanocomposites increases by 60.7% and extensibility of prepared epoxy nanocomposites increases by 53.4% compared to neat epoxy resin. In addition, the prepared epoxy nanocomposites are used as efficient reusable photocatalysts for degradation of methylene blue (MB). The efficiency of MB degradation is 98% within 60 min. This work opens up a new avenue to fabricate high‐performance epoxy nanocomposites with multifunctional properties for advanced engineering applications.