Influence of kaolinite modification on the PVC composites properties

Abstract

Funcionalization of the filler surface is very important factor for achieving good interaction between filler and polymer matrix. In addition the mechanical as well as chemical properties, thermal stability, gas permeability, and flammability can be substantially improved. Hence, the intercalation of kaolinite by urea was performed. Untreated and treated kaolinite samples were examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectra were measured and interpreted. Samples intercalated with urea and subsequently exfoliated during washing exhibit a variable intensity of the 001 diffractions of kaolinite (K) and the presence of interstratified intermediate kaolinite phase was also approved. For the PVC/kaolinite composites the suspension type of PVC with K value 60 was used. Commercial type of pure kaolinite, urea intercalated kaolinite, and intercalated/exfoliated kaolinite after washing of urea from kaolinite-urea intercalate were used as the filler. PVC/kaolinite compounds were prepared by the melt intercalation method. Morphology of prepared samples and their mechanical stability was tested.