Nanocomposites of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) and an organically modified montmorillonite (O-MMT) were prepared using different production approaches to assess possible effects on the degree of clay intercalation/exfoliation. The morphology of the nanocomposites was studied using X ray diffratometry and transmission electron microscopy. Tensile properties and static thermal stability were also evaluated. Hybrid intercalated/partially exfoliated nanocomposites were obtained, regardless of whether the PVC compound was processed from the powder (dry blend) or granulated (extruded) samples, or of the methodology used for incorporation of O-MMT into the PVC compound (directly in the intensive mixer or pre-exfoliated in a hot mixture of DIDP/ESO). The plasticizers, present in the flexible PVC compound, exerted an important role in the process of intercalation and exfoliation of the clay, helping the formation of the nanocomposites.
PVC; poly(vinyl chloride); polymer/clay nanocomposites
