Influence of blending sequence on micro- and macrostructure of PA6/mEPDM/EPDMgMA blends reinforced with organoclay

The structure of the PA6/mEPDM/EPDMgMA/organoclay ternary hybrids was characterized and related to its properties. The nanoblends were prepared through four different blending sequences based on one- or two-step processes: (1) The PA6/organoclay nanocomposite was prepared and then mixed with the mEPDM+ EPDMgMA compound; (2) the mEPDM+EPDMgMA+ organoclay compound was first prepared and then mixed with PA6; (3) the PA6, mEPDM, EPDMgMA, and organoclays were blended in one step; and (4) the PA6/mEPDM/EPDMgMA blend was prepared and then mixed with the organoclay. The microscopic study of the nanoblends showed a relationship between the blending sequence and the dispersion of the organoclay and the rubber. Nevertheless, the mechanical characterization showed slight differences between the blending sequence because of the presence of the organoclay in the matrix, rubber, or interface. (C) 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.