Surface treatment of nano ZnO using 3,4,5,6-tetrabromo-N-(4-hydroxy-phenyl)-phthalamic acid as novel coupling agent for the preparation of poly(amide–imide)/ZnO nanocomposites

Technological developments during the last century have led to the use of materials that inhibit or resist the spread of fire, because modern world with the increase in electronic products presents a greater risk of fire dangers. In line with this goal, a novel modifier containing bromine elements with flame retardancy potential for the surface modification of ZnO nanoparticles was produced from the reaction between tetrabromophthalic anhydride and p-aminophenol. For the synthesis of nanocomposites (NCs), the modified ZnO was embedded in the poly(amide–imide) (PAI) matrix under ultrasonic conditions. Samples were characterized by Fourier transform infrared, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy and UV-visible (UV/Vis) techniques. TGA results indicated that the addition of modified ZnO into the PAI matrix increases in the thermal decomposition temperatures of the obtained NCs and that the UV/Vis absorbance of NCs was examined and displayed better UV-protection property than the pure PAI.