Efficient fluorinating agent through topochemical fluorination of Co-Fe layered double hydroxides

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Inorganic Chemistry
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Developing efficient solid-state fluorinating agents is crucial for polymer modification.
• Topochemical reactions offer a pathway to novel inorganic materials with unique properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize a mixed-metal inorganic fluoride solid solution, Co0.60Fe0.40F3.
• To investigate its F(•)-releasing ability and efficacy as a solid-state fluorinating agent for polyethylene films.

Main Methods:

• Topochemical reactions of Co2FeCl(OH)6·2H2O layered double hydroxide (LDH) with molecular fluorine (F2).
• Solid-state fluorination of commercial polyethylene film.
• (19)F solid-state Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy.
• Contact angle measurements.

Main Results:

• Successful synthesis of Co0.60Fe0.40F3 solid solutions at temperatures as low as 100 °C.
• Demonstrated F(•)-releasing ability of the synthesized fluoride.
• Efficient fluorination of polyethylene film confirmed by (19)F NMR and contact angle analysis.

Conclusions:

• The novel Co0.60Fe0.40F3 solid solution is an effective solid-state fluorinating agent.
• Low-temperature synthesis and application highlight its practical potential.
• The material offers a promising route for modifying polymer surfaces.