Polymer–Clay Nanocomposite Foams Prepared Using Carbon Dioxide

Poly(methylmethacrylate) and polystyrene–clay nanocomposites have been synthesized and exfoliated clay dispersion has been achieved (see Figure). Nanocomposite foams have been prepared using CO2 as the foaming agent. Orders of magnitude increase in nucleation efficiency was accomplished by manipulation of clay dispersion and polymer–clay–CO2 interaction.