Thermal characterization of organically modified montmorillonite

Polymer/organically modified layered silicate (PLS) nanocomposites are a ne w class of filled polymers with ultrafine phase dimensions, They offer an o utstanding combination of stiffness, strength and weight that is difficult to attain separately from the individual components. Additionally, the nano scopic phase distribution as well as synergism between polymer and the laye red silicate result in additional properties, such as flame retardency, enh anced barrier properties and ablation resistance, which are not observed in either component. These nanocomposites are synthesized by blending the org anically modified layered silicate (OLS) into the polymer melt. Thus, under standing the relationship between the molecular structure and the thermal s tability (decomposition temperature. rate, and the degradation products) of the organic modification of the layered silicate is critical, During this study, modern thermal analysis techniques combined with infrared spectrosco py and mass spectrometry (TGA-FTIR-MS) were used to obtain information on t he thermal stability and degradation products. The effect of chemical varia tion (alkyl chain length, number of alkyls, and unsaturation) of organic mo difiers on the thermal stability of the organically exchanged montmorilloni te are discussed. A range of interesting results is observed, however, not all are currently understandable. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.