Organofilização de argila bentonita e aplicação como carga nanométrica em polímeros.

Abstract

This work consisted in the modification of Brasgel PA clay with Praepagen WB ionic surfactant and its incorporation into PP with 20% (wt) of compatibilizer. The results obtained were: Foster Swelling indicated that the hydrophobic character of the clay was improved after the modification with the surfactant; FTIR and XRD techniques demonstrated that the organophilization process used was effective, transforming the hydrophilic sodic clay into organophilic clay; Praepagen WB surfactant led to a significant increase in the d(001) basal spacing of the clay at concentrations up to 200% and saturated at 300% of CEC; TG analysis indicated that for PP and other systems containing modified clay the weight loss started at around 250°C. The systems containing the modified clay were more stable. XRD results for polymer/compatibilizer/clay mixture indicated that nanocomposites with intercalated structure were formed; when compared to neat PP there occurred a reduction in modulus and tensile strength and an increase in impact strength of the systems.