Using nanclays as both compatibilizer and reinforcing filler for immiscible polymer blends: Toword making the plastic waste recycling industry more cost effective

The focus of this research is to perform a comparative study for examining the effects of two types of hydrophobic nanoclays of different structures (Cloisite® 10A (C10A) and Cloisite® 15A (C15A)) on the solid and melt-state properties of an immiscible polymer blend composed of polypropylene and poly (ethylene oxide). Results obtained here were compared with our previous study (Al-Juhani, 2012, which focused on the use of hydrophilic Cloisite® 30B (C30B) nanoclay for the same polymer blend system), in an attempts to expose some light on the structure-property relationships that govern the bulk behavior of nanoclay-filled polymer blends. Results showed that, although clear compatibilization effect was observed by the addition of nanoclay irrespective of the type of nanoclays investigated, the bulk mechanical properties were strongly influenced by the hydrophobicity and structure of the organic modifier used.