Durability of LDPE nanocomposites with clay, silica, and zinc oxide II. weatherability of the nanocomposites

Three LDPE nanocomposites based on the nanoscale fillers, montmorillonite clay, silica, and zinc oxide were studied to determine if the reinforcement they imparted was accompanied by any change in the weatherability of the nanocomposite. Changes in weathering behavior were monitored in samples exposed to natural weathering outdoors over a period of 24 months of exposure. Because of superior light‐shielding afforded by the high specific surface area of nanofillers a stabilization effect might be anticipated. Alternatively chemical effects may enhance weatherability. In all three nanocomposites studied, the weatherability compared to unfilled LDPE did not significantly change due to the presence of 5 wt% of the nanofillers. The efficient reinforcement afforded by the nanofillers is not accompanied by a loss or enhancement in durability of the material. POLYM. COMPOS., 34:1878–1883, 2013. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers