Preparation and characterization of a PMMA/Ce(OH)₃, Pr ₂O₃/graphite nanosheet composite

An easy process for the synthesis of poly(methyl methacrylate)/Ce(OH) ₃, Pr₂O₃/graphite nanosheet (PMMA/Ce(OH) ₃, Pr₂O₃/NanoG) composite was developed. Graphite nanosheets (NanoG) were prepared by treating the expanded graphite with sonication in aqueous alcohol solution. The PMMA/Ce(OH)₃, Pr₂O₃/NanoG composites were prepared via in situ polymerization of MMA monomer in the presence of graphite nanosheets and Ce(OH)₃, Pr₂O₃ through reverse micelle template, in which the methyl methacrylate was designated as the oily phase. The composites were then dispersed with chloroform and coated on glass slides to form films. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize the structure and dispersion of the graphite nanosheets and the composites. The results showed that the high-aspect-ratio structure of the nanosheets played an important role in forming a conducting network in the PMMA matrix. From thermogravimetric analysis, the introduction of graphite nanosheets and inorganic nanopartices exhibited a beneficial effect on the thermal stability of PMMA.