Abstract
Clay minerals are widely used for coating paper and as a filler in a variety of rubber and plastic products. Because of the high shape factor and physical anisotropy of clay crystallines, the appearance and physical properties of these products can vary. This variability results from a preferred orientation of the clay particles, produced during the manufacturing process. The etching of organic matter with oxygen plasma at temperatures below 70°C results in the removal of all organic compounds from the surface of the material, thereby allowing the three-dimensional distribution of inorganic particles to be visualized by a scanning electron microscope (SEM). This paper presents photomicrographs of examples of different sorts of paper (coated and uncoated), plastics (PVC floor tile, cable insulation) and a non-metal car body, in order to judge the spatial distribution of clay particles in those materials.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
