Preparation and characterization of polyolefin- based nanocomposite blown films for agricultural applications

Polyolefin-based films were prepared in the presence of two different organo-modified clays and characterized. The influence of organo-modifier and matrix composition on film morphology and properties were investigated using SEM, XRD, UV-Vis, FT-IR, contact-angle measurements and mechanical tests. The filler increased the films' rigidity and tear strength. Transparencies were almost unchanged in the visible range, but were reduced for harmful radiation. The presence of the clay increases the greenhouse effect, i.e. it hinders the passage of thermal emission from the soil to the outer part of the greenhouse during the night. The wettability of the materials was not influenced by the presence of the clay

A critical review on the manufacturing processes in relation to the properties of nanoclay/polymer composites

Nanoclay/polymer composites can be prepared by various processing techniques such as solution process, in-situ polymerization, and melt blending. It is found that each technique has an influence on the final characteristics and properties of the composites. In this study, different processing techniques are reviewed in order to study the relationship between these techniques and the final characteristics and properties of nanoclay/polymer composites, i.e., the final structure formation, rheological perfection, thermomechanical and thermal properties. Thermodynamic and physical properties such as glass transition temperature (Tg), equilibrium melting point (Tm) and crystallization temperature are also discussed. Moreover, the effect of ‘nano-filler’ on crystallinity phases of polymeric resin from a processing technique perspective is briefly reviewed to clarify the role of polymer-nanoclay interactions and nanoclay dispersion on the elastic-viscoelastic behaviour of composites. The current review concluded that altering processing technique (type and parameters) is highly influenced the final nanostructure morphology as well as the thermodynamic and mechanical properties of nanoclay/polymer composites