Radiation-induced modification of montmorillonite used as a filler in PP composite

In order to improve compatibility between inorganic fillers and polymeric matrix, montmorillonite (MMT) particles were modified with maleic anhydride (MA), then irradiated with electron beam, and finally were dispersed in polypropylene (PP). It was found that absorption of MA on the surface of layered clay results in the formation of salt-type bonding. Radiation treatment generates in the organic modifier stable carbon-centered radicals which, upon dispersion of activated particles in PP, induce filler-matrix linkages. Thus, such a process is another approach which has been shown to be an effective way in overcoming organophobic character of inorganic fillers in polymeric composites.