# Preparation of Particle-Reinforced Resin Using Highly Functional ZnO Particle Filler Driven by Supramolecular Interactions

## TL;DR

Researchers created a new high-performance material by modifying zinc oxide nanoparticles and using them to reinforce a polymer.

## Contribution

A novel ZnO nanoparticle with dual functional groups was synthesized and shown to enhance polymer composite strength.

## Key findings

- Functionalized ZnONPs were successfully synthesized using a hydrothermal method.
- Composite films with functionalized ZnONPs showed higher maximum stress than unmodified ones.
- The composites are promising for high-performance material applications.

## Abstract

The surface modification of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) with organic compounds has been shown to improve their dispersibility. In this study, to develop a highly functional material, ZnONP modified with 6-amino-1-hexanol bearing both amino and hydroxyl functional groups was synthesized. Scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses confirmed that functionalized ZnONP was successfully obtained by a hydrothermal synthetic method. The mechanical properties of composite films of polylactic acid (PLA) reinforced with the functionalized ZnONP were then evaluated. The composite containing functionalized ZnONP exhibited a higher maximum stress than that containing unmodified ZnONP. These ZnONP/polymer composites therefore show promise as novel high-performance materials.