In situ polymerization approach to functionalized MoS₂/polyethylene nanocomposites with enhanced thermal stability and mechanical properties

Bulk MoS₂ was chemically exfoliated and functionalized with a long alkyl amine (octadecylamine, ODA) and subsequently used as a component in the preparation of an (ODA)-MoS₂/MgCl₂/TiCl₄ catalyst through a coagglomeration method. After in situ ethylene polymerization, flake shape polyethylene (PE)/ODA-MoS₂ nanocomposites were obtained, and the ODA-MoS₂ fillers were well dispersed in the PE matrix with strong interfacial adhesion. Additionally, the thermal stability and mechanical properties of PE were significantly enhanced by incorporation of the ODA-MoS₂ fillers. Therefore, the in situ polymerization approach proposed here will open a new and exciting avenue for the development of transition metal dichalcogenide reinforced polyolefin nanocomposites.