Synthesis and Characterization of Linear Low-Density Polyethylene/Sepiolite Nanocomposites

Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE)/sepiolite nanocomposites were prepared by melt blending using unmodified and silane-modified sepiolite. Two methods were used to modify sepiolite: modification before heat mixing (ex situ) and modification during heat mixing (in situ). The X-ray diffraction results showed that the position of the main peak of sepiolite remained unchanged during modification step. Infrared spectra showed new peaks confirming the development of new bonds in modified sepiolite and nanocomposites. SEM micrographs revealed the presence of sepiolite fibers embedded in polymer matrix. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that nanocomposites exhibited higher onset degradation temperature than LLDPE. In addition, in situ modified sepiolite nanocomposites exhibited higher thermal stability than ex situ modified sepiolite nanocomposites. The ultimate tensile strength and modulus of the nanocomposites were improved; whereas elongation at break was reduced. The higher crystallization temperature of some nanocomposite formulations revealed a heterogeneous nucleation effect of sepiolite. This can be exploited for the shortening of cycle time during processing. (C) 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 123: 1718-1723, 2012