Preparation and Characterization of Two Distinct Ethylene Glycol Derivatives of Kaolinite

A new, well-ordered, thermally robust ethylene glycol intercalate of kaolinite was formed by refluxing the dimethyl sulfoxide intercalate of kaolinite (Kao-DMSO) with dry ethylene glycol (EG). This new phase (Kao-EG 9.4 Å) which is characterized by a d 001 of 9.4 Å is distinct from a previously reported ethylene glycol intercalated phase of kaolinite (Kao-EG 10.8 Å) which has a d 001 of 10.8 Å. The characterization of these two phases was studied by XRD, NMR, FTIR, and TGA/DSC. It was found that the concentration of water in the ethylene glycol reaction media played a crucial role in governing which of the phases predominated. Water favored Kao-EG 10.8 Å formation, while anhydrous conditions favored the formation of Kao-EG 9.4 Å. It is hypothesized that Kao-EG 9.4 Å is a grafted phase resulting from the product of the condensation reaction between an aluminol group on the interlamenar surface of kaolinite and the alcohol group of ethylene glycol. Ethylene glycol units would be attached to the interlamellar surface of kaolinite via Al-O-C bonds. The Kao-EG 9.4 Å phase was found to be resistant to both thermal decomposition up to 330°C and also, once formed, in the absence of interlamellar water molecules, to decomposition by hydrolysis in refluxing water.