Optimization of Extrusion Parameters for Preparing PCL-Layered Silicate Nanocomposites Supported by Modeling of Twin-Screw Extrusion

• Published in: Macromolecular materials and engineering Vol. 298; no. 2; pp. 210 - 220
• Main Authors: Watzeels, Nick, Van Durme, Kurt, Miltner, Hans Edouard, Block, Christophe, Van Assche, Guy, Van Mele, Bruno, Bogdanov, Bogdan, Rahier, Hubert
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Weinheim WILEY-VCH Verlag 01.02.2013; WILEY‐VCH Verlag; Wiley; John Wiley & Sons, Inc
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Composites; Computer programs; Dispersions; Exact sciences and technology; Extrusion; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; Mathematical models; mechanical properties; Nanocomposites; Nanomaterials; Nanostructure; Optimization; Polymer industry, paints, wood; processing; quasi-isothermal crystallization; Software; Technology of polymers; Twins; visco-elastic properties; Mixing; Organic clay; Montmorillonite; Computer simulation; Dispersion degree; Double screw extruder; Experimental study; nanocomposites; mechanical properties; Structure processing relationship; visco-elastic properties; Morphology; processing; Nanocomposite; Growth from melt; Polycaprolactone; quasi-isothermal crystallization
• ISSN: 1438-7492; 1439-2054
• DOI: 10.1002/mame.201100419

PCL‐based nanoclay (layered silicate) nanocomposites are prepared using a small scale intermeshing co‐rotating twin‐screw extruder. Improving the level of nanoclay dispersion in PCL nanocomposites is obtained by changing the extrusion parameters. Increasing the screw speed and decreasing the throughput leads to an improved dispersion quality, as observed from the improved mechanical properties of the nanocomposites as well as from their clearly affected rheological and crystallization behavior. Furthermore, a commercially available software that simulates the twin‐screw extrusion process (LUDOVIC) is used to asses the processing parameters applied for making the nanocomposites. High shear rates and broad residence time distributions prove beneficial for the nanofiller dispersion of PCL/nanoclay nanocomposites prepared by melt extrusion. Although the intercalation is not significantly affected, the extent of exfoliation is clearly improved. Commercially available software facilitates the selection of extrusion conditions that may generate a good nanofiller dispersion.