Rubber-toughened nanocomposites (RTNC) consisting of a series of compatibilized polyamide 6 / polypropylene (PA6/PP) blends, polyethylene-octene elastomer (POE) and organophilic modified montmorillonite (organoclay) were produced by melt compounding followed by injection moulding. Polypropylene grafted maleic anhyride (PPgMA) was used as compatibilizer. The incorporation of organoclay significantly increased the stiffness and strength but at the expense of the toughness. Conversely, the incorporation of the POE increased the toughness, while the strength and stiffness decreased. The modulus and strength of the nanocomposites was not significantly affected by types of elastomer and their functionality and the blending sequence. However, the toughness of the nanocomposites toughened by maleated elastomer was higher than the unmaleated elastomer. Two steps method gave the best mechanical properties due to its good dispersion of the organoclays and elastomer in the matrix. XRD established that the organoclay was well dispersed (exfoliated) and preferentially embedded in the PA6 phase.

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Mat Uzir Wahit is an associate professor. His research interests include advanced materials, natural fiber composite materials, rubber toughened polymers, polymer nanocomposites and polymers for biomedical application. He has published more than 60 research papers and conference proceedings on polymer blends and polymer nanocomposites.