Fibers from polymeric nanocomposites

Abstract

The clay-containing polymeric nanocomposites (CPNC) comprise a polymeric matrix and dispersed in it mineral or synthetic clay platelets. The key condition for success is the thermodynamic miscibility of the ingredients at the processing temperature. Toward this goal, the clay is usually pre-intercalated and/or compatibilized with the matrix. The role of melt

compounding is to accelerate the dispersion process. Adding an extensional flow mixer to the compounding line accelerates the dispersion. At the organoclay loading of 1-5 wt%, the CPNC show increased (in respect to matrix polymer) rigidity, strength, dimensional stability. barrier properties, flame resistance, etc. The main use of CPNC is in the transport and

packaging industries. Fiber spinning of CPNC started about five years ago. The preliminary work demonstrated several beneficial aspects of the technology, e.g. improved spinnability, dyeability, mechanical properties, reduced shrinkage, flame resistance, and others. This review provides a brief outline of the fundamental aspects of CPNC production followed by a

summary of publications on the electrospinning, solvent spinning, and melt spinning of CPNC. An effort has been made to focus on the relative effects brought about by incorporation of organoclay.