Nader J., Dagher H., Gardner D., Duguay A., Parent J., Kiziltas A.
The University of Maine, US
Keywords: nanoclay, nanocomposites, thermoplastics
This study investigates the effects of direct melt compounding, masterbatch dilution and compatibilzer addition on the mechanical and morphological properties of organoclay nanocomposites. Nanoclay reinforced Polypropylene composites were manufactured using melt mixing with and without adding anhydride-grafted polypropylene. The compounded materials were compared with Nanoclay reinforced Polypropylene material with similar compounds diluted from commercial masterbatches. All compounded materials were prepared at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 wt% nanoclay. The compounded materials were pelletized and then injection molded. Series of tensile, flexural, and impact tests were conducted to evaluate mechanical properties. Thermogravimetric analysis was conducted to evaluate thermal stability of the material. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to evaluate the degree of exfoliation and dispersion of the nanoclay in the composite.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2010: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites
Published: June 21, 2010
Pages: 91 - 94
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Materials Characterization & Imaging
ISBN: 978-1-4398-3401-5