This study introduces a novel and versatile method for synthesizing clay/polypyrrole (PPy) nanoparticles and investigates their potential for versatile applications. The composite nanoparticles have been synthesized via solution (emulsion) polymerization of pyrrole in the presence of Montmorrilonite (MMT) clay nanoparticles. The synthesis process involves intercalating polypyrrole within layered clay nanoparticles to create a hybrid nanocomposite. The resulting PPy/MMT nanoparticles were characterized using various analytical techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermal gravimetrical analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Characterization analyses were conducted to investigate the deposition and intercalation of PPy within and on the MMT layers. The FTIR spectra show characteristic peaks for both PPy and MMT in the PPy-MMT nanocomposites, indicating successful polymerization. The TGA thermograms reveal the thermal stability of the PPy-MMT nanocomposites. X-ray diffraction confirm the successful PPy intercalation into the clay layers. SEM shows the different morphology for bare MMT and PPy/MMT composite nanoparticles. The versatility of this synthesis approach allows for tailoring PPy/MMT properties for specific applications, making these nanoparticles promising for energy storage, sensing devices, water treatment and composite materials.
