Preparation and properties of polyimide nanocomposites via a soluble polyisoimide precursor

A polyisoimide based on 4,4'-oxydiphthalic dianhydride and 4,4'-oxydianiline was synthesized and used for the preparation of nanocomposites with commercial organoclays by the solution dispersion technique. The cast composite films were heat-treated to convert them into polyimide nanohybrid films. Homogeneous dispersions were obtained at lower clay concentrations (< 5 wt %), and this was confirmed by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The nanocomposites displayed improved thermal and mechanical properties. (c) 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.