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Effect of Clay Type on Structure and Properties of Poly(methyl methacrylate)/Clay Nanocomposites
Author(s) -
Si Mayu,
Goldman Michael,
Rudomen Gregory,
Gelfer Mikhail Y.,
Sokolov Jonathan C.,
Rafailovich Miriam H.
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
macromolecular materials and engineering
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.913
H-Index - 96
eISSN - 1439-2054
pISSN - 1438-7492
DOI - 10.1002/mame.200500382
Subject(s) - exfoliation joint , materials science , nanocomposite , small angle x ray scattering , intercalation (chemistry) , transmission electron microscopy , composite material , poly(methyl methacrylate) , scattering , lamellar structure , composite number , methacrylate , chemical engineering , methyl methacrylate , polymer , copolymer , nanotechnology , graphene , optics , organic chemistry , chemistry , physics , engineering
Summary: PMMA nanocomposites using natural Cloisite 6A and synthetic Lucentite SPN clays were produced via melt blending. The degree of intercalation or exfoliation was measured for both composites using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and the results were confirmed with small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS). The smaller dimensions of the synthetic SPN, as well as the complete absence of Fe ion impurities allowed for the production of a composite which was optically clear and completely colorless. TEM and SAXS measurements were performed on samples heated to high temperatures. The data showed that in both cases large ribbons composed of the individual platelets were formed. We postulated that these ribbons formed a barrier against spreading of the flame and hence the smaller clays, which are more mobile, had a higher efficiency.TEM image of a high degree of exfoliation of synthetic clay SPN in the PMMA matrix.