Preparation of rare-earth LDHs stabilizers and their effects on the thermal stability of poly(vinyl chloride)

Abstract

This study delves into the exploration of zinc lanthanum layered double hydroxides (Zn–La-LDHs) and zinc aluminum lanthanum layered double hydroxides (Zn–Al–La-LDHs) as potential thermal stabilizers for poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC). The investigation aims to elucidate the synergistic effects of the above rare-earth (RE) LDHs in combination with dibenzoylmethane (β-diketone), pentaerythritol (PE), and other commonly employed heat stabilizers on PVC’s crucial properties, including thermal stability, plasticization, and mechanical strength. The experimental findings demonstrated notable enhancements in PVC’s thermal stability upon incorporation of RE-LDHs, β-diketone, and PE. This enhancement is attributed to the ability of RE-LDHs to effectively hinder degradation reactions within the PVC matrix, thereby increasing its degradation activation energy and overall stability. Moreover, the integration of RE-LDHs contributes significantly to improving PVC’s plasticization and mechanical properties, rendering it suitable for a diverse range of applications. While both Zn–La-LDHs and Zn–Al–La-LDHs exhibited good thermal stability, Zn–La-LDHs demonstrated slightly inferior performance compared to Zn–Al–La-LDHs. This distinction underscores the importance of considering the specific characteristics of each LDHs compound when formulating PVC stabilizer systems. Furthermore, this study highlights the potential of RE-LDHs as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional PVC stabilizers, offering opportunities to develop sustainable stabilizer formulations that address environmental concerns associated with conventional stabilizers. In conclusion, the synthesis and application of RE-LDHs represent a significant advancement in PVC stabilization technology, providing a viable and environmentally conscious approach to enhancing the performance and longevity of PVC-based materials.

Graphical abstract