Innovative green nanocomposites based on silicate clays/lignin/natural fibres

A new type of nanocomposite based on silicate clays, lignin and natural fibres has been elaborated by shear mixing in a twin-screw extruder. Either sepiolite or organically modified montmorillonite (Org-MMT) have been chosen for being dispersed into lignin/natural fibres system. The morphological aspect of the obtained nanocomposites has been controlled by Transmission Electronic Microscopy (TEM). For sepiolite-based nanocomposites, individual needles have been observed while Org-MMT-based nanocomposites have exhibited partial delamination of silicate layers into intercalated and exfoliated nanostructures. The properties of the specimens have been studied by thermogravirnetry (TGA), Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) and flexural tests. Incorporation of 2% or 5% w/w of sepiolite does not influence the mechanical and thermal behaviour compared to the reference lignin/natural fibres composite while Org-MMT-based nanocomposites have shown improved properties. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.