Abstract

A type of organophilic montmorillonite (O-MMT) was prepared with a silane coupling-agent. A polyacrylateorganosilicon and its layered silicate nanocomposites (PLS) for leather finishing were prepared by emulsion polymerization. The O-MMT was examined by infrared spectrum (FT-1R), wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD). The results show that the distance between the silicate layers increased indicating that the intercalating agents did enter into the gallery space of the montmorillonite.

Films of the nanocomposites (PLS) were examined by WAXD and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), the results prove the formation of exfoliated nanocomposites. Film formation was easy and the film was completely transparent with good tenacity. The mechanical properties and flexural modulus of the nanocomposite film were improved; especially noteworthy was the glass transition temperature of the film which decreased.