Preparation and mechanical properties of polypropylene-clay hybrids using a maleic anhydride-modified polypropylene oligomer

Polypropylene‐clay hybrids (PPCH) were prepared using a maleic anhydride‐modified PP oligomer (PP‐MA) as a compatibilizer. PP was melt‐blended with organophilic clay which was intercalated with PP‐MA. In these PPCHs, the particles of silicate layers were dispersed at the nanometer level. The particles became smaller and were dispersed more uniformly, as the ratio of PP‐MA to the clay was increased. The dynamic storage moduli of the PPCHs were higher than that of PP up to 130°C. For example, the modulus of the PPCH with 5 wt % clay and 22 wt % PP‐MA was 1.8 times higher compared to that of PP at 80°C. As the dispersibility of the clays was improved, the reinforcement effect of the clays increased. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 67: 87–92, 1998