Development of hybrid nanocomposites based on PLLA and low-field NMR characterization

Hybrid nanocomposite based on poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) employing silica (A200) and organophilic silica (R972), natural clay (NT-25) and two types of organoclay (S4 and S7) were prepared by the solution casting method. Each nanoparticle type was incorporated at two ratios (3 and 5%) relative to the polymer matrix. The nanocomposites formed were evaluated by X-ray, thermal resistance and molecular dynamic analysis, using proton spinlattice relaxation time. The results showed that each nanoparticle type acted independently of the polymer/nanoparticle ratio in the new material. Both silica types promoted an increase in rigidity, due to the strong intermolecular forces. The natural clay did not cause any significant change in the molecular mobility of the nanocomposites, probably due to the non-affinity of the chemical structure. Therefore, both organoclays were better dispersed in the polymeric matrix, allowing good intermolecular interaction and, consequently, exfoliated and intercalated nanocomposites were formed. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.