On-line meaurement of dispersion in nanocomposites

Properties of polymer-clay nanocomposites depend on the degree of dispersion of clay in the polymer matrix. Currently off-line techniques such as transmission electron microscope and x-ray diffraction are used to determine dispersion. This research aimed to determine a property that is affected by dispersion and has the ability to be measured on-line. Polypropylene and Cloiste 15A (nanoclay) were melt blended with the aid of maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene compatibilizer. The mechanical, electrical, optical, and rheological properties were measured for all the trials. Transmission electron microscopy was performed to evaluate the results. The capacitance of the nanocomposites varied with change in the degree of dispersion. The mechanical properties (tensile characteristics) did not show a significant change with dispersion. The rheological properties gave a good indication of exfoliation of clay layers at low shear rates. The visible color test could not give a definite indication of dispersion as compared to the other properties.