Basilia B.A., Casano A.I.Y., Gan J.W.
Mapua Institute of Technology, PH
Keywords: nanocomposites, organoclays, polycarbonate
This study aims to synthesize and investigate the electrical, chemical and thermo-mechanical properties of recycled polycarbonate/organo-montmorillonite nanocomposites. Polycarbonate from post-consumer wastes was recovered by mechanical abrasion process and chemical stripping. Formulations of 1-10% organo-montmorillonite (o-mmt) loading in the recycled polycarbonate (RPC) matrix were conducted. The developed RPC/o-mmt nanocomposite systems were characterized using the Thermo-Mechanical Analyzer (TMA), Dynamic-Mechanical Analyzer (DMA), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR), high potential tester, and insulation tester. The changes in the absorption bands of the FTIR spectra of the nanocomposite systems confirmed the miscibility of the nanofiller in the RPC matrix. Electrical characterization of the local RPC/o-mmt systems showed an increase in electrical resistance with the increase in clay loading. The dielectric strength and glass transition temperature decreases as a function of clay loading. Dimensional stability, thermal stability and modulus of elasticity were improved at higher clay loadings. The development of this type of nanocomposites will help lower formulation cost of engineering thermoplastics and enhance the functional properties of recycled polycarbonate for the growing plastics industry.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 2, Technical Proceedings of the 2007 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 2
Published: May 20, 2007
Pages: 156 - 159
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Personal & Home Care, Food & Agriculture
Topics: Advanced Materials for Engineering Applications, Personal & Home Care, Food & Agriculture
ISBN: 1-4200-6183-6