Influence of processing methods on the dispersion of laponite and the bulk properties of laponite filled latex nanocomposite

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the role of processing methods on the dispersion of unfunctionalized Laponite in latex and the property enhancements of nanocomposite. Processing methods used to disperse Laponite included planetary shear mixing (PSM), ultrasonication, and hand-mixing. Two complimentary characterization techniques were used to evaluate the dispersion of the Laponite in nanocomposite samples: Confocal laser scanning microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Nanocomposites processed using PSM showed the least agglomeration of Laponite, followed by hand mixing and ultrasonication. Cryo TEM of latex showed a honeycomb structure with the center of honeycomb occupied by the latex particles, while the nanocomposite showed Laponite nanoparticles surrounding the exterior of the latex particle. Hygrostability studies showed that the average saturated moisture adsorbed by the nanocomposite is strongly dependent on the sample thickness, laponite loading and the processing condition adopted in mixing Laponite with the latex Among all the processed nanocomposites, the thermo-mechanical performance of PSM processed nanocomposite showed the least decrease in modulus compared to latex. These results can have a strong bearing on the design of next generation adhesives.