Preparation and mechanical properties of polypropylene-clay hybrids using a maleic anhydride-modified polypropylene oligomer

TLDR

Polypropylene‑clay hybrids were produced by melt‑blending polypropylene with organophilic clay intercalated with a maleic anhydride‑modified polypropylene oligomer as a compatibilizer. The hybrids showed nanometer‑scale silicate dispersion that became smaller and more uniform as the PP‑MA to clay ratio increased, resulting in dynamic storage moduli up to 1.8 × higher than neat PP at 80 °C and improved reinforcement up to 130 °C. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Abstract

Polypropylene-clay hybrids (PPCH) were prepared using a maleic anhydride-modified PP oligomer (PP-MA) as a compatibilizer. PP was melt-blended with organophilic clay which was intercalated with PP-MA. In these PPCHs, the particles of silicate layers were dispersed at the nanometer level. The particles became smaller and were dispersed more uniformly, as the ratio of PP-MA to the clay was increased. The dynamic storage moduli of the PPCHs were higher than that of PP up to 130°C. For example, the modulus of the PPCH with 5 wt % clay and 22 wt % PP-MA was 1.8 times higher compared to that of PP at 80°C. As the dispersibility of the clays was improved, the reinforcement effect of the clays increased. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 67: 87–92, 1998