Innovative Poly(Butylene Terephthalate) Based Nanocomposites: a Preliminary Investigation

A polymer-clay nanocomposite based on Poly(butyleneterephthalate) (PBT) and an innovative organoclay has been synthesized via intercalation of Bis(hydroxyethyl terephthalate) (BHET) in Na-Montmorillonite layers. Chemical and physical properties of this nanocomposite have been studied in comparison to other PBT/nanocomposites based on two commercial organoclay: Cloisite 25A and Somasif MEE. Nanocomposites have been prepared via melt compounding using a twin-screw extruder, with extrusion rate of 150 rpm. Samples were characterized by using wide-angle X-ray diffraction, TEM, thermal and mechanical analysis.