Evidence of polyolefins/clay molecular interaction at the interface of nanocomposites

Polyolefin nanocomposites by varying the nature and structure of the polymer matrix (from EPM to PP), the type of polymer compatibilizer (grafted functionality and molecular weight) and the amount of layered silicate were prepared and characterized by XRD, TEM, DSC, TGA and dielectric measurements. The selective extraction of these materials was carried out to remove the nonbonded polymer and to isolate the composite with the sole polymer strongly interacting with the inorganic surface that was accurately characterized with respect, in particular, to morphology development and thermal characteristics. All the collected results were discussed by considering the role of interface between functionalized polyolefin chains and silicate layers and also in relation to resulting organoclay dispersion state and stability.