Structure and Mechanical Properties of Melt Intercalated Po1lypropylene–Organomontmorillonite Nanocomposites

The preparation and properties of polymer nanocomposites, obtained by melt-compounding of polypropylene (PP) and organomontmorillonite (OMMT) modified by different alkyl ammonium salts, are described. A copolymer of maleic anhydride and PP was used as a compatibilizing additive. Nanocomposites with OMMT content of 1, 5 and 10 wt% were prepared and tested. The influence of OMMT content on the tensile stress–strain curves, elastic modulus, yield and tensile strength, and ultimate elongation of the nanocomposites is determined. The results of measuring the microhardness and impact strength of polymer nanocomposites are presented. Long-term creep tests were performed to predict the long-term deformation behavior of nanocomposites. The crystallinity of nanocomposites was analyzed by means of differential scanning calorimetry and optical microscopy, while the structural features were studied by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy methods.