Organoclay-based nanocomposites: from processing to microstructure and rheological behavior

International audienceThe main target in the preparation of organoclay-based nanocomposites by melt mixing is to obtain a correct dispersion of the clay into the polymer matrix and a sufficient level of exfoliation to reach the required properties. In this presentation, we show how the microstructure at different levels, from micro- to nanoscale, can be characterized using complementary techniques. We explain the impact of the processing conditions of the twin screw compounding process (screw speed, feed rate, barrel temperature, screw profile) and we show the importance of both organomodifier and compatibilizer. We present the interactions between the microstructure at different scales and the rheological behaviour and we show how rheological characterizations may allow to get pertinent information on the structure and the stability of the clay network