Nanocomposites based on layered silicates and ultrahigh-molecular-mass polyethylene prepared via in situ polymerization

Nanocomposites based on ultrahigh-molecular-mass PE and layered silicates are prepared via in situ polymerization. The process is conducted in the suspension mode under mild conditions with the use of a conventional Ziegler-Natta catalyst and a bifunctional complex containing a nickel oligoallene component along with a titanium component. The fillers are four types of montmorillonite: nonmodified montmorillonite and three montmorillonites modified with various organic intercalants. In their presence, the activities of the catalysts appreciably increase (by a factor of 2-3). Composites containing 10-40 wt % aluminosilicates are prepared. The structures of the polymer matrix and composites are studied via X-ray diffraction. It is found that the degree of exfoliation of the filler depends not only on its amount but also on the type of modifier and the type of catalytic system. The PE matrix with a molecular mass of (1.5-1.6) x 10(6) has a melting point of T (m) = 141-143A degrees C, a high enthalpy of melting, and a high degree of crystallinity. The IR-spectral studies of the polymers synthesized with the bifunctional complex reveal the presence of branches in a chain, thereby suggesting the formation of linear PE with a medium density (0.938-0.946 g/cm(3)). Nanocomposites containing 10% aluminosilicate possess the best complex of mechanical properties relative to that of unfilled polyethylene.