General description
Polymer-clay nanocomposites are formed through the union of two very different materials with organic and mineral pedigrees. The hybrid compositions, however, exhibit large increases in tensile strength, modulus, and heat distortion temperature as compared with the pristine polymer. Covering both the theory and practical applications, this volume covers the key aspects of these important materials including: Polymer-clay intercalates; The preparation and general properties of special practical and commercial significance (including strength, stiffness, toughness, permeability, fire retardation and chemical stability); The elucidation of the structural and rheological factors influencing performance and processing properties.