Biodegradable nanocomposites from maleated polycaprolactone/soy protein isolate blend with organoclay: Preparation, characterization, and properties

Abstract New biobased, eco‐friendly nanocomposites were prepared from maleated polycaprolactone/soy protein isolate blend (50/50 wt/wt) with organo‐modified clay by melt compounding. The XRD, TEM, tensile, DMTA, and rheological properties of the nanocomposites were investigated. X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed that the intercalated nanocomposite is formed and the silicate layers of the clay are uniformly dispersed at a nanometer scale in the polymer matrix. There is a great enhancement in tensile and dynamic mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. Rheological study revealed that the nanocomposite exhibits strong shear thinning behavior and clay particles form network in the melted state of the composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 2009. © 2008 Society of Plastics Engineers