Light-Absorbing Composites Based on an Epoxy Polymer and FeO

In this study, organo-inorganic composites based on an epoxy polymer and an FeO-containing oxide pigment are obtained and studied. The structure and morphology of the materials are examined using X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, optical spectroscopy, and microhardness measurements. It is shown that the composites have a homogeneous structure and contain small (up to 100 nm) particles consisting of various iron oxides (FeO, Fe3O4, and α-Fe2O3), which exhibit strong absorption of radiation in the near-IR region of the spectrum. The resulting composites exhibit high light absorption in the near-IR spectral region and may be promising as light-absorbing elements in laser systems.