A novel approach to nanocomposite preparation utilizing a swelling agent, a
monomer or polymer known to intercalate/exfoliate smectite clay, has allow
ed the preparation of several new nanocomposites. Present in small amounts,
the swelling agent serves to swell the clay layers, allowing the organic m
atrix to be virtually any polymer. Twenty-four polymers are used in this st
udy, varying in solubility parameter, molecular weight, and polarity. Many
of these polymers do not yield a nanocomposite structure by simple melt mix
ing of the clay and polymer. Although some polymers are capable of partial
intercalation or exfoliation without the addition of a swelling agent, addi
tion of 2 wt% of this additive results in either complete intercalation/exf
oliation or an increased percentage of nanocomposite formation, in comparis
on to the clay-polymer mix. The evidence of a nanocomposite structure is pr
ovided by a shift in, or the absence of, clay reflections in X-ray powder d
iffraction patterns.