Thermal properties of poly (vinyl alcohol)(PVA)/halloysite nanotubes reinforced nanocomposites

Natural halloysite nano clay with tubular structure was used for the preparation of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanocomposites. A systematic and detailed study was conducted on the effect of nanotubes on the properties such as flame retardancy, water absorption capacity, and thermal stability of poly (vinyl alcohol) matrix. Morphological and structural characterizations of nanocomposites were performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and fourier transform infra red (FTIR) spectroscopy. XRD results showed peak broadening and disappearance in nanocomposites when compared to the peaks for nanotubes, indicating the better dispersion of nanotubes in the matrix. Owing to the hydrophilicity of nanotubes the nanocomposites exhibited enhanced water sorption properties. At higher temperature nano filler reinforced PVA showed better thermal stability and flammability due to barrier effect.