Preparation and properties of layered silicate nanocomposites based on ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers

(Nano)composites based on ethylene amyl acetate copolymers (EVA) and montmo rillonite modified by various alkylammonium cations were processed by mecha nical kneading. Polymer intercalation and filler exfoliation were evidenced by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy, respectively. N ano-composites tensile properties showed that Young's modulus increases sig nificantly even at very low content of the organo-modified filler while pre serving high ultimate elongation and tensile stress. The matrix thermal sta bility an air was increased by 40 degreesC and, interestingly, the obtained nanocomposites present flame retardant properties.