Effect of the silane modification of clay on the tensile properties of nylon 6/clay nanocomposites

Abstract

Abstract A commercially available organomodified clay, Cloisite 25A, was modified with 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane, 3‐(glycidoxypropyl)trimethoxysilane, and 3‐isocyanate propyltriethoxysilane to enhance its interaction with the nylon 6 matrix. Composites made of nylon 6 and clays modified with the different silane compounds were prepared by melt mixing with a twin‐screw extruder. The dispersion and degree of exfoliation of the organomodified clays were evaluated from X‐ray diffraction patterns and transmission electron microscopy images of the corresponding composites. The tensile properties of the composites were measured, and their enhancement was attributed to the work of adhesion and interfacial tension of the composites. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010