Abstract
Multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) and montmorillonite (Mt) are used as reinforcing fillers in polymers. Achieving homogeneous distribution of the reinforcing nanoparticles without agglomerates in polymeric matrices continues to be an important topic in materials science. In this study, hybrid Mt/MWCNT nanofiller was prepared after determining the most stable composition with the help of dynamic light scattering (DLS). The hybrid Mt/MWCNT was characterized via X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The Mt/MWCNT hybrid fillers were incorporated in poly(lactic acid) (PLA) at concentrations of 0.5, 1 and 2 wt%, by a two-step procedure of solution and melt mixing, and their physicochemical, thermal, mechanical and morphological properties were evaluated. The physicochemical studies suggested strong hybrid-polymer interaction. The structural analyzes confirmed synergy between nanoclay and carbon nanotubes in achieving homogeneous dispersion of Mt/MWCNT nanoparticles in the PLA matrix. The thermal characterizations depicted that the Mt./MWCNT hybrid nanofillers synergistically restricted the PLA segment motions and promoted the crystallization of the polymer matrix. The mechanical properties of PLA/Mt/MWCNT nanocomposites were improved, confirming the reinforcing effect of the Mt/MWCNT hybrid on PLA matrix.
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