Preparation and flammability properties of polyethylene-clay nanocomposites

Polyethylene (PE)-clay nanocomposites have been prepared using melt blending in a Brabrender mixer. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize the nano-structure of these composites while the thermal stability was evaluated from thermogravimetric analysis and the flammability parameters using cone calorimetry. It is found that the PE-clay nanocomposites have a mixed immiscible-intercalated structure and there is better intercalation when maleic anhydride is combined with the polymer and clay to be melt blended. The reduction in peak heat release rate is 30-40%. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.