Mineral fillers for polymer nanocomposites

Abstract

Traditional polymer composite materials consist of two or more phases with a clear interfacial boundary, which determines the physical and mechanical properties of plastics. The properties of nanocomposites depend on many parameters: the chemical nature of the polymer, the functionality of the modifier, the methods for obtaining the composite, and the modification of the layered silicate. Silicates are the most numerous class of minerals. They account for approximately one third of the mineral species known in nature, tk. are the most important rock-forming minerals. The use of layered silicates makes it possible to achieve a significant improvement in a number of properties of nanocomposites: a decrease in density, an improvement in the fire resistance of materials, an increase in the surface quality of products, a decrease in abrasive wear of equipment in the production of products from nanocomposites, and an increase in the recyclability of materials. Nano-reinforcement increases, among other things, rigidity and strength, and also significantly reduces the technological shrinkage of the material and improves dimensional stability. Nanostructured surfaces of such materials due to the special relief have very low adhesion energies, thus, the products acquire dirt-repellent properties, their appearance and consumer qualities are improved. In addition, the permeability of the material to gases, vapors, and odors is significantly reduced. Keywords: fillers; polymer nanocomposites; minerals.