Preparation and gas permeation properties of biodegradable polymer/layered silicate nanocomposite membranes

Biodegradable polymer/layered silicate nanocomposite membranes were prepared by solution casting method for the application of dehumidification and gas separation. The intercalation and exfoliation of clay in the prepared nanocomposite membranes were confirmed through X-ray diffraction study (XRD). Their thermal and mechanical properties were observed by using Thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) and Universal Testing Machine (UTM), respectively. Gas and vapor permeation properties were examined to investigate the effect of the intercalated nanocomposite into membranes. Both gas and vapor permeabilities of the prepared nanocomposite membranes were found to decrease with the increase of clay content. They proved their particular barrier property through intercalation of clay.