Elaboration and thermal behavior of nanocomposites based on poly(ethyl methacrylate) and an Algerian bentonite prepared via in situ polymerization initiated by Ni(II)α-benzoinoxime complex

► Partially exfoliated nanocomposites based on poly(ethyl methacrylate) were successfully prepared via in situ polymerization. ► The Tg of these nanocomposites, increased moderately by about 4 °C, compared to that of pure PEMA. ► A significant enhanced thermal stability of these nanocomposites compared to virgin PEMA was observed. ► The Eα of thermal degradation for PEMA/OBT nanocomposites were much higher than that of virgin PEMA.