Effect of NiLaxFe2−xO4 nanoparticles on the thermal and coating properties of epoxy resin composites

Epoxy resin has been modified with Ni–La–Fe–O nanoparticles in the form of NiLaxFe2−xO4/epoxy nanocomposites to improve their coating properties. The new composites of different x composition (x=0.00, 0.50, 1.00, 1.50 and 2.00) were synthesized in situ while epoxy resin was prepared by using a simple solution method with ultrasonic assistance. The new nanocomposites were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), thermogravemetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The thermal degradation showed a more complicated behavior in the presence of Ni–Fe–La–O as shown by the presence of two maxima in the 300–475°C temperature range. Reinforced composites with nanoparticles showed enhanced compressive coating properties. Ni–Fe formulations showed great promise to improve epoxy coating due to their higher barrier properties and ionic charge transfer resistance.