Preparation and properties of new EPDM/vermiculite nanocomposites

Novel nanocomposites based on ethylene-propylene-diene rubber (EPDM) and maleic anhydride-modified vermiculite (VMT) were prepared. Maleic anhydride (MA) acts both as the intercalation agent for VMT and as a vulcanizing agent for EPDM matrix. It also acts as a compatibilizer for EPDM and VMT phases. From analysis by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the silicate layers of the VMT were exfoliated and dispersed uniformly in the EPDM matrix as monolayers. The thermal properties of the nanocomposites were investigated by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis and thermogravimetric analysis; a strong rubber-filler interaction in the nanocomposites was manifested in the measured temperature range by the result of storage modulus. At the same time, there was some enhancement in degradation behavior between the nanocomposites and EPDM matrix. The nanocomposites exhibited a great improvement in tensile strength and modulus, as well as elongation at break. Finally, the effects of MA addition on the formation of nanometric reinforcement and on the mechanical properties of nanocomposites are discussed. POLYM. COMPOS., 26:706–712, 2005. © 2005 Society of Plastics Engineers