Polystyrene/calcium phosphate nanocomposites: Dynamic mechanical and differential scanning calorimetric studies

Calcium phosphate nanoparticles were prepared by the matrix mediated synthesis and were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. The particle size was found to be around 10 nm. Nanocomposites of polystyrene with calcium phosphate were prepared by melt mixing technique. Dynamic mechanical analysis and differential scanning calorimetric studies of the composites were performed. The storage modulus increased with respect to the filler loading and the glass transition temperature showed a positive shift indicating good reinforcement. The specific heat capacity measurements showed a drastic reduction, which indicated good filler matrix interaction. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.