Polymer‐Clay Nanocomposites Based on Blends of Polyamide‐6 and Polyethylene

The preparation of polyamide‐6/clay, high‐density polyethylene/clay, and high‐density polyethylene/ polyamide‐6/clay nanocomposites is considered. X‐ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) measurements show that the clay enhances the crystallization of the γ‐form of polyamide‐6. The clay also acts as a nucleation agent and causes a reduction of spherulitte size. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of fracture surfaces shows that the clay reduces the PA‐6 particle size in the HDPE/PA‐6/clay nanocomposites and changes the morphology. Mechanical properties and the effect of maleated polyethylene are also reported.