Polymer-Clay Nanocomposites Based on PEO- Diacrylate Macromolecules: a Combined Computational/Experimental Study

The subject of hybrids based on layered inorganic compounds such as clays has been studied for a considerable time, but the area is enjoying a resurgence of interest and activity as a result of the exceptional properties which can be realized from such nanocomposites. Materials variables which can be controlled and which can have a profound influence on the nature and properties of the final nanocomposite include the type of clay, the eventual choice of clay pre-treatment, the selection of polymer component and the way in which the polymer is incorporated into the nanocomposite. The synthetic route of choice for making a nanocomposite depends on whether the final material is required in the form of an intercalated or exfoliated hybrid. In the case of an intercalate, the organic component is inserted between the layers of the clay such that the inter-layer spacing is expanded, but the layers still bear a well-defined spatial relationship to each other. In an exfoliated structure, the layers of the clay have been completely separated and the individual layers are distributed throughout the organic matrix. A third alternative is dispersion of complete clay particles (tactoids) within th