Synthesis of polyamide-6/montmorillonite nanocomposites by direct in-situ polymerization catalysed by exchanged clay

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to obtain polyamide-6 nanocomposites with national organically modified clay (termed 12-montmorillonite). The formation of polyamide-6 was confirmed by infrared spectroscopy (IR), the prepared nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The evolution of mechanical properties was also studied. The obtained results confirm the intercalation of molecules of salt in the clay layers, and a good interaction with the polymer, showing the formation of intercalated and/or partially exfoliated structures. The nanocomposites showed higher thermal stability compared to pure polymer, and the mechanical properties presented interesting and promising results.