Preparation and Properties of Halloysite Nanotubes/Poly(ethylene methyl acrylate)-Based Nanocomposites by Variation of Mixing Methods

Abstract

ABSTRACT Halloysite nanotube-based inorganic–organic polymer nanocomposite has been developed with improved mechanical strength in one direction by solution mixing followed by melt mixing. Melt mixing, solution mixing, and melt-cum-solution mixing were performed to optimize the mechanical strength of the nanocomposites. The field emission scanning electron microscopic images and small-angle X-ray scattering spectrum can support the unidirectional array of halloysite nanotubes in the matrix. The tensile properties revealed that solution–melt mixing is the most desired way to develop clay-based nanocomposites. Thermal characterizations implied that thermal stability was improved after nanoclay incorporation. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed the flow properties and the “Payne effect” of the nanocomposites. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT