The impact of functionalized β‐<scp>CD</scp> surface‐coated <scp>ZnO</scp>@Mg–Al <scp>LDH</scp> on the properties of double network <scp>PVA</scp> hydrogel nanocomposites

Abstract Double network polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel nanocomposites were prepared through interpenetrating of an amide‐sulfonic acid functionalized hydrogel into the PVA matrix, which was reinforced by carboxylated β‐cyclodextrin (CCD) modified ZnO@Mg–Al LDH (CZnL). CZnL was prepared by the reconstructing calcined LDH, supported by ZnO nanoparticles in the presence of CCD. XRD, FE‐SEM, and TEM results indicated the successful self‐assembled and intercalated LDH in the presence of surface‐coated ZnO nanoparticles. The water content measurements indicated the significant impact of the double network hydrogel on the absorption of water molecules. The TGA result of the PVA sample loaded with 2 wt% of hydrogel exhibited highest thermal stability, suggesting a greater impact of the hydrogel compared to the nanohybrid filler. The MCC and LOI results indicated a desirable synergistic effect of CZnL and hydrogel in enhancing the flame retardancy of the PVA films. The PVA sample loaded with 2.5 wt% of CZnL and 2.5 wt% hydrogel exhibited 171 W·g −1 and 176 kJ·g −1 reductions in pHRR and HRC values, respectively, compared to neat PVA. The elongation at break and tensile strength of the mentioned sample increased from 17.68% to 21.25% and 88.30 to 96.86 MPa, respectively, compared to neat PVA. Highlights Preparation a nanohybrid including nanosized ZnO installed on the calcined LDH. Synthesis of carboxylated β‐cyclodextrin for modification of ZnO@LDH. Preparation of double network PVA/CD modified ZnO@LDH hydrogel nanocomposites. The effect investigation of hydrogel and modified nanohybrid on the PVA properties. Improved properties were observed in the PVA nanocomposites.