Compatibilizing effect of hydrogenated oligo(cyclopentadiene) on the structure and the properties of polypropylene-based nanocomposites

Polypropylene has been compounded with a commercial organoclay both in the absence and in the
presence of hydrogenated oligo(cyclopentadiene) (HOCP) as a compatibiliser. The characteristics and the
properties of the nanocomposites were evaluated and compared. HOCP favours the intercalation of the
polypropylene in the organoclay galleries and enables a more homogeneous dispersion of the nanoclay
throughout the polymer matrix. In the compatibilised nanocomposite, the diluent effect ascribed to the
HOCP component is associated with the nucleating action of the nanoclay, resulting in the development
of the b-crystalline form of the polypropylene. The presence of HOCP preserves the molecular weight of
the polymer during the processing and gives good overall mechanical properties to the compatibilised
nanocomposite. The thermo-oxidative degradation of the polypropylene is strongly delayed in the
compatibilised nanocomposite.