Synthesis and Characterization of a Novel Curing Agent for Epoxy Resin Based on [Emim][Ac]/Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework Composites

The curing agent is an essential component in the epoxy resin (EP) system, while the rational construction of the curing agent is highly desired for practical applications. In this study, a novel curing agent was developed using Zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate ([Emim][Ac]). [Emim][Ac]@ZIF-8 serves as both a functional filler and a curing agent for preparing [Emim][Ac]@ZIF-8/EP. The curing behavior of [Emim][Ac]@ZIF-8/EP was investigated through differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) characterizations. Notably, during the curing reaction of the epoxy resin, [Emim][Ac]@ZIF-8 exhibited delayed kinetic behavior compared to pure [Emim][Ac]. Furthermore, the impact of the loading amount of [Emim][Ac] and the dosage of [Emim][Ac]@ZIF-8 on the curing temperature of the system was explored. Finally, the curing kinetics of epoxy resin (E-51) in both [Emim][Ac]@ZIF-8 and [Emim][Ac] were analyzed using DSC at different heating rates. This work provides an insightful guidance for the construction of effective fillers for the preparation of epoxy composites.