Novel polystyrene‐based light diffusing materials: Introduction of magnesium hydroxide to enhance scattering range and thermal conductivity

Abstract In high‐power lighting, large‐screen display, and other practical application scenarios, Light diffusing materials (LDMs) with favorable thermal conductivity are desired to assist in heat dissipation. In this paper, platy magnesium hydroxide (pMH) and mesoporous spherical magnesium hydroxide (sMH) were introduced as scattering particles for the first time to prepare polystyrene (PS)‐based LDMs. The limited refractive index mismatch allowed MH to be filled in large quantities with less sacrifice of light transmission performance. Owing to the complex surface morphology and large specific surface area, sMH possesses stronger scattering capability, and its combination addition with pMH could effectively increase scattering range. Meanwhile, an effective filler network was constructed with the combined use of pMH and sMH, and thus enhanced the thermal conductivity of the composites. Additionally, PS/pMH‐sMH composites exhibited higher thermal stability. This study expands the auxiliary thermal management capability of light diffusion materials and presents a new application possibility for MH as scattering particles. Highlights A new application possibility for Magnesium hydroxide as scattering particles. Light transmittance degradation of PS/MH at high filler loadings was mitigated by RI matching. Complex surface morphology endowed sMH with strong scattering capability. Optimal filling ratio of pMH to sMH was tested for better scattering performance. Extended scattering range, improved TC and thermal stability was achieved.