Rectorite (REC), one kind of layered silicates, has been applied to polymers to improve their properties. The sodium alginate (SA) layered silicate is a new option to modify the properties of polysaccharides. In this article, SA was modified by Na þ -rectorite (Na þ REC). The chemical structures and microstructures of Na þ REC and Na þ REC modified SA (SA/Na þ REC) were analyzed by using Fourier transform infrared spectrometer and X-ray diffraction. The morphologies of SA/Na þ REC composites were observed by using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The mechanical and anti-ultraviolet properties as well as thermal properties of SA/Na þ REC composites were investigated. The results show that the properties of pure SA film can be improved by the addition of Na þ REC, and SA/Na þ REC composite containing 2 wt % Na þ REC has the best intercalation effect and optimum comprehensive properties among the prepared composites in this article.
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