Novel nanocomposite based on reactive organoclay and photosensitive aliphatic–aromatic polyamide: Synthesis and characterization

Novel polyamide/organoclay nanocomposites were prepared through solution intercalation technique. Reactive organoclay was prepared using Cloisite‐Na⁺ and protonated form of 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane via ion‐exchange reaction. New photosensitive aliphatic‐aromatic polyamide containing dibenzal acetone moiety was successfully synthesized through direct polycondensation. Flammability and thermal properties of the polyamide and corresponding nanocomposites were studied. Thermogravimetric analysis results indicated improved thermal stability of the nanocomposites compared to the neat polyamide. According to the microscale combustion calorimeter results, the peak heat release rate value has been decreased from 113 to 72 W/g by introducing 2 wt% of the organoclay in the polyamide matrix. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:1502–1509, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers