Nanocomposite of waterborne hyperbranched polyester and clay@carbon dot as a robust photocatalyst for environmental remediation

Abstract

In this study, eco-friendly high performing waterborne hyperbranched polyester nanocomposites with different doses of clay@carbon dot nanohybrid were fabricated for the first time through an in situ polymerization technique in absence of any solvent and compatibilizing agent. X-ray diffractometeric (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic (FTIR) and transmission electron microscopic (TEM) analyses support the formation of nanocomposite. XRD confirmed the absence of d001 reflections of bentonite clay while TEM study revealed the partial exfoliation of the layers by the polyester chains. The thermoset of this nanocomposite with hyperbranched epoxy of glycerol and poly(amido amine) showed an appreciable improvement in tensile strength (7.8–35.7 MPa), scratch hardness (4–>10 kg), impact resistance (>8.3–>10 kJ/m), Young's modulus (245–340 MPa), toughness (17.18–49.89 MJ/m3) and thermal stability (by 32 °C) compared to the pristine system. The nanocomposite also exhibited a high adsorption capacity (90.9 mg/g) of Pb(II) ions. Further, the nanocomposite was also used as a visible light active photocatalyst for removal of organic dye like Rodamine B. In addition, the nanocomposite exhibited biodegradability behavior against Pseudomonus aerugionosa bacterial strain. Thus, the nanocomposite is an exceptionally promising candidate as an environmentally friendly, low-cost and effectual adsorbent for the elimination of contaminants from the atmosphere.