Polymer Nanocomposites by Melt Processing
Abstract
The objective of this project was to establish the basic principles of formation of polymer-organoclay nanocomposites by melt processing techniques and their performance. The key issue is to exfoliate, or disperse, the clay platelets in the polymer so that the highest possible aspect ratio is achieved. It was shown that this depends critically on the extruder type, screw configuration, the structure of the surfactant on the organoclay, and the melt viscosity of the polymer matrix. Very high levels of exfoliation were demonstrated for polyamide systems as determined by quantitative transmission electron microscopy techniques developed as part of this project. The interaction of the organoclay with the polymer is perhaps the most important issue in achieving exfoliation; a - qualitative understanding of this interaction was developed which provides some guidance in-polymer and organoclay selection. A great deal of effort was devoted to characterizing the morphology or structure of the nanocomposites generated as well as documenting properties like modulus, strength, heat distortion temperature, thermal expansion coefficient, and to a limited extent barrier and flammability. Conventional composite theories seem to give a good description of the reinforcement achieved and can be a useful tool in predicting stiffness and thermal expansion behavior.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA432066
Entities
People
- D. R. Paul
Organizations
- University of Texas at Austin