The influence of organo-bentonite clay on the processing and mechanical properties of nylon 6 and polystyrene composites

The influence of organoclay on the processing and mechanical properties of nylon 6 and polystyrene was investigated. A bentonite sample from Boa Vista/PB, Northeast of Brazil, was treated with alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride. After the treatment, the powder was characterized by thermal analysis and infrared spectroscopy. Composites were prepared by using a Torque rheometer. The results show the intercalation of quaternary ammonium salt in the structure of bentonite and organo-bentonite produced significant changes on the processing of the nylon 6 and polystyrene with increase in the viscosity and rigidity. However, the mechanical properties of polystyrene/organoclay system did not show significant changes. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.