Elastic response of nanocomposite poly(vinylacetate)‐hydroxyapatite with varying particle shape

Abstract

Abstract The mechanisms by which hydroxyapatite nanofiller promotes reinforcement in poly(vinylacetate) matrix is investigated. Hydroxyapatite nanofillers with spherical and platelet particle shape were synthesized. Particle size was in the range from 5 to 60 nm. Filler concentration in composites was limited to maximum of 5 vol% to minimize filler networking. Effect of the nanofiller particle shape on the elastic response of nanocomposite was examined using dynamic‐mechanical thermal spectroscopy. Attempt to interpret the observed phenomena was based on the molecular approach. POLYM. COMPOS., 28: 365–371, 2007. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers