Synthesis and Integration of an Fe(II) Coordination Compound into Green Resin Matrices for Multifunctional...

Polymer-based hybrid composites have emerged as promising platforms for multifunctional energy applications, combining structural versatility with tunable dielectric behavior. In this study, synthesized [Fe(bpy)₃]SO₄; (tris(2,2'-bipyridine)iron(II) sulfate) coordination compound was incorporated into a green epoxy resin matrix to fabricate nanocomposites aimed at enhancing dielectric permittivity (ε'), piezoelectric coefficient (d₃₃, pC/N), energy-storage efficiency (n_rel, %), and mechanical strength (σ, MPa). The integration of the Fe(II) complex via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) confirmed a homogeneous dispersion within the matrix. Broadband Dielectric Spectroscopy (BDS) revealed the presence of three relaxation processes in the spectra of the tested systems, demonstrating enhanced dielectric permittivity with increasing Fe(II) content. Under progressively shorter relaxation times (τ, s), key processes such as interfacial polarization, the polymer matrix's transition from a glassy to a rubbery state, and the dynamic reorganization of polar side groups along the polymer backbone are activated. The ability to store and retrieve electric energy was confirmed by varying filler content under direct current (dc) conditions. The nanocomposite with 10 phr (mass parts/100 mass parts of resin) filler achieved a piezoelectric coefficient of d₃₃ = 5.1 pC/N, an energy-storage efficiency of n_rel = 44%, and a tensile strength of σ = 55.5 MPa, all of which surpass values reported for conventional epoxy-based composites. These results confirm the ability of the system to store and retrieve electric energy under direct current (dc) fields, while maintaining mechanical robustness and thermal stability due to synergistic interactions between the epoxy matrix and the Fe(II) complex. The multifunctional behavior of the composites underscores their potential as advanced materials for integrated dielectric, piezoelectric, and energy storage and harvesting applications.