No abstract

The aim of this research is to develop nanocomposite polyethylene terephthalate-polyamide blends (PET/MXD6 blends) with low oxygen permeability. Particular attention has been paid to the relation between barrier properties and the processing route adopted and therefore four different strategies were considered. Mechanical characterization shows that clay may effectively act as reinforcing filler in PET/MXD6 blends. Morphological characterization shows the strong effect of the processing strategy on clay dispersion and its distribution between the PET and polyamide phases. Barrier properties of PET/MXD6 nanocomposite blends are enhanced with respect to neat PET polymer as well as PET/MXD6 blends. The significant effect of processing techniques on barrier properties is also revealed.

Composites of MWCNTs and an organically modified partially synthetic layered silicate (OMLS) with PC/ABS were prepared by melt blending and the relationship between morphology and electric properties as a function of composite composition examined. The concept of double percolation was investigated and confirmed, as a consequence of CNT preferential segregation within one polymer phase. The role of OMLS in hindering the formation of an effective electrically conductive network was observed only above a certain clay loading