Surface modification effects of CaCO3 and TiO2 nanoparticles in nonpolar solvents

In many industries, calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) are popular fillers and pigments. However, its application in a nonpolar medium is limited due to its surface characteristics in pristine conditions. This study focuses on modifying CaCO3 and TiO2 nanoparticles using oleic and stearic acid. Several characterizations were performed to assess the changes in the treated material, including Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, as well as energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Additionally, the dispersion stability of both materials in different nonpolar solvents was visually inspected. The interaction of materials in surface modifications is a success where few additional peaks were presented in FTIR spectroscopy. The morphology and sedimentation outcomes revealed that the treated materials induced a better dispersion, smoother surface, and higher stability. The improvements in treated materials indicate a successful modification of the CaCO3 and TiO2 nanoparticles for nonpolar medium applications.