One-Step in Situ Modification of Halloysite Nanotubes: Augmentation in Polymer–Filler Interface Adhesion in Nanocomposites

Abstract

Nanocomposites of chlorinated polyethylene/ethylene methacrylate copolymer (60/40 ratio) with augmented polymer–filler interface adhesion were prepared by following a facile covalent modification of halloysite nanotubes (HNTs). The covalent modification of the outer and inner lumen structures of HNTs were pursued by two different methods: in-situ ring opening polymerization of e-caprolactone and silane modification using organosilane (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffreaction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and water contact angle measurement manifests a successful organic covalent modification of the HNT surface. The synergistic mechanical properties of covalently poly(e-caprolactone)-modified HNT nanocomposites come from the ameliorated polymer–filler interface interaction that can be understood by the study of the “Pukanszky model” and dynamic mechanical analysis. The rheology study of nanocomposites help understand the polymer–filler ...