Elastomer–Clay Nanocomposites

Abstract

Different clays having different structures and compositions give different types of nanocomposites. In polymer nanocomposites, the fillers are dispersed on a nanolevel. Depending on the nature of filler, type of dispersion, and method of preparation, the nanocomposites can be divided into subclasses. Graphite having layered structure can also be intercalated by polymers and can form nanocomposites by exfoliation of the layers. Nanocomposites based on clay can be of three different types depending on the extent of intercalation and dispersion, which are different from conventional composites. Many different polymers have already been used to synthesize polymer–clay nanocomposites. Nanoclays as well as nanotubes have been used to prepare nanocomposites of ethylene–propylene–diene monomer rubber. Acrylic Rubber is very tacky in nature and contains acrylic group, which makes it polar in nature. Nanocomposites have been prepared based on the elastomer with a wide range of nanofillers. Elastomers have very low glass transition temperature and their viscosity is high.