Layer-by-layer fabrication of nacre inspired epoxy/MMT multilayered composites

The organic–inorganic hybrid multilayered composites are prepared using a unique combination of poly[(o-cresyl glycidyl ether)-co-formaldehyde] (CNER), amino modified montmorillonite (NH₂-MMT), and polyethyleneimine (PEI). This tricomponent composite multilayer PEI(CNER/NH₂-MMT/PEI)_n deposited via layer-by-layer technique is based upon synergistic combination of covalent and hydrogen bonding. The growth of multilayer was monitored using UV–vis spectroscopy and ellipsometry. When subjected to optical analyses, the prepared multilayered composite films revealed profound optical transmittance ∼83%–87%. The surface morphological analysis by atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy revealed uniform arrangement of organic–inorganic components with relative increase in intensity of elements (C, N, O, Si) as confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies. The multilayered composites possess 1.99 GPa hardness making them potential candidate for a number of applications where mechanical strength is desired. Moreover, significant resistance against alkaline and organic solvents at minimal deterioration of circa 0.12% has also been observed for the prepared films. The epoxy clay based thin films being robust, scratch resistant, hydrophilic, chemically inert, and mechanically strong are potential candidates for advanced environmental applications. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46079.