Journal of Macromolecular Science Part A - Chemistry · 1974 · 26 citations · 4 references
Natural SciencesMaterials EngineeringMaterials SciencePolymer ChemistryPolymer EngineeringPolymer MaterialsCoatingsNanocompositesPolymer CompositesPolymer CompoundingPolymer NanocompositesPolymer-matrix CompositesCationic PolymerizationFiller Surface FunctionalizationFillersFillers MaterialsNanocomposite ProcessingPolyethylenePolymerization Of Vinyl MonomersVinyl Polymers
Abstract A novel method for producing modified mineral fillers is reported: The mineral surface is first made “acidic” and this acidic surface is used to initiate the cationic polymerization of vinyl or preferably divinyl monomers, the residual acidic sites being subsequently neutralized with ammonia or an organic base. During compounding, grafting occurs between the encapsulating polymer layer and the matrix polymer via previously formed peroxidic groups in this layer or via radical attachment at unsaturated centers in the polymer coating. The incorporation of these modified fillers in various grades of polyethylene results in significant improvements in processability and in tensile and impact strength relative to the properties of equivalent composites using untreated or merely hydrophobic fillers.
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