Inorganically modified particles FeAl-LDH@SiO₂ as reinforcement in poly (methyl) methacrylate matrix composite

Silica particles were obtained from rice husk to which layered double hydroxide particles were deposited (weight ratio 1 : 1). Fe²⁺-Al³⁺ layered double hydroxides (FeAl-LDH) were synthesized by co-precipitation with ratios Fe : Al of 3 : 1 in the presence of SiO₂ particles from the rice husk. Characterization of the synthesized FeAl-LDH@SiO₂ particles was performed by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy with EDS. Prepared FeAl-LDH@SiO₂ particles were used as reinforcing agents in 1, 3 and 5 wt% quantity in poly (methyl) methacrylate matrix. The aim of this study was to examine whether FeAl-LDH@SiO₂ particles affect the mechanical properties of polymer composite materials. The morphology of the composites was examined using a field emission scanning electron microscope. Microindentation, tensile and impact testing determined the mechanical properties of the obtained composites.