The impact strength of an amorphous polyamide/organoclay nanocomposite has been increased by means of a rubber modified with maleic anhydride (MAH). The organoclay resided in the polyamide matrix and maintained dispersed rubber particle size upon rubber addition. The changes of the dispersed rubber particle size with modifier and nanoclay addition indicated compatibilization of the nanocomposites and interactions between the dissolved surfactant and the rubber modifier. The obtained nanocomposites had a high stiffness and extremely large toughness values, as determined both by impact strength measurements and by the essential work of fracture method.
- Imanol González
- José Ignacio Eguiazábal
- Jon Nazábal
