Summary: A series of polymer‐clay nanocomposites were prepared by the simultaneous in situ curing of 4‐(N‐maleimido)phenylglycidylether/4,4‐diaminodiphenylmethane (MPGE/DDM) with the intercalation/exfoliation of various organo‐modified clays. The dispersion of the clays in the polymer matrix was produced by partial exfoliation and intercalation, as observed with X‐ray diffraction and transmission electronic microscopy. Clay modified with a carboxylic acid‐containing modifier showed enhancements with repesect to clay delamination in nanocomposite preparation. In comparison with the pristine resin, MPGE/DDM‐clay nanocomposites showed improved glass transition temperatures, thermal stability and flame retardance.
Preparation and characterization of polymer‐clay nanocomposites based on a new maleimide‐epoxy hybrid monomer.
