Probing nanodispersions of clays for reactive foaming

G. Harikrishnan, Chris I. Lindsay, M. A. Arunagirinathan, Chris Macosko

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

28 Scopus citations

Abstract

Nanodispersions of clays in polyurethane components have been prepared. Nanoclays (both natural and organically modified) of various aspect ratios are used. The fillers are dispersed separately in polyurethane components, viz., polyol and polyisocyanate. The nanodispersions are characterized by the combined use of solution rheology, X-ray scattering, cryo-electron microscopy, and IR spectroscopy. Reactive foaming of these nanodispersions is carried out to make polyurethane nanocomposite foams. The status of the dispersion of fillers in components and in foams has been compared to investigate the effect of the foaming process in exfoliation. Interpretation of the results from different characterization techniques describes the state of the dispersion of fillers in components and in foam. The rheological and physicochemical behaviors of nanodispersions are shown to have a significant influence on the properties of nanocomposite foams.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1913-1918
Number of pages6
JournalACS Applied Materials and Interfaces
Volume1
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 30 2009

Keywords

  • barrier property
  • cell morphology
  • nanodispersion
  • polyurethane
  • reactive foaming

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Probing nanodispersions of clays for reactive foaming'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this