Preparation of a Transparent and Flexible Self-Standing Film of Layered Titana/Isostearate Nanocomposite by Hydrophobic Sol-Gel Process

Abstract

A titania-based self-standing film having high transparency and flexibility was prepared via a sol-gel process in a hydrophobic solvent with a salt catalyst. The sol obtained by the sol-gel reaction floated on the water surface to form the unsupported film. This film was composed of a titania/isostearate nanocomposite with a layer structure. The basal spacing of the layer structure depended on the chain length of the carboxylate modifier.