Novel polyurethane network/organoclay nanocomposites: Microstructure and physicochemical properties

A series of novel polyurethane network/organoclay nanocomposites (PUN-NCs) with different soft segment contents (30–60 wt%) was prepared by in situ polymerization solution and characterized. PU network (PUN) made from poly(dimethylsiloxane)-based macrodiol as the 4,4′-methylenediphenyldiisocyanate hyperbranched polyester third pseudo generation hard segment. Nanocomposites were obtained dispersion organically modified montmorillonite (Cloisite 30B) nanofiller (0.5 wt%). The influence content on functional properties PUN-NCs studied Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), small-angle near wide-angle X-ray scattering (SWAXS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic mechanical thermal analyses (DMTA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), nanoindentation, atomic force microscopy (AFM), electron (SEM), swelling behavior, water absorption contact angle measurements. biodegradation process evaluated using mixed cultures microorganisms that originated soil. Mechanically strong PUN-NC materials form films obtained, pointing to good existence exfoliated morphology Cloisite 30B within PUN matrix, abovementioned characteristics a function content. decrease induced higher degree phase separated microstructure, increase Young's modulus, hardness, plasticity, storage glass transition temperature, surface free energy ability tetrahydrofuran, but at same time, it is responsible for crosslinking density hydrophobicity PUN-NCs. By choosing adequate content, can potentially be designed coating applications, such top environmental conditions.