Some Novel Layered-Silicate Nanocomposites Based On a Biodegradable Hydroxybutyrate Copolymer
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
8-1-2007
Department
Polymers and High Performance Materials
Abstract
This paper describes the preparation, characterization, mechanical properties and thermal stability of layered silicate nanocomposites, based on poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (PHB-co-PHH, known as Nodax (TM)). The dispersed phases were organically modified montmorillonites (clay 20A and clay 25A), mica, and talc, and they were introduced by solution mixing. Wide-angle X-ray scattering results and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images confirmed that these two clays were intercalated and finely distributed in the Nodax (TM) matrix. This type of layered filler led to remarkable improvements in mechanical properties even at very low loadings. Minimizing aggregation was more of a problem in the case of the mica and the talc, at least in this particular matrix. In some cases, these layered fillers slightly decreased the thermal stability of the Nodax (TM). (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Publication Title
European Polymer Journal
Volume
43
Issue
8
First Page
3128
Last Page
3135
Recommended Citation
Zhang, X.,
Lin, G.,
Abou-Hussein, R.,
Hassan, M.,
Noda, I.,
Mark, J. E.
(2007). Some Novel Layered-Silicate Nanocomposites Based On a Biodegradable Hydroxybutyrate Copolymer. European Polymer Journal, 43(8), 3128-3135.
Available at: https://aquila.usm.edu/fac_pubs/1949