Clay network in ABS-graft-MAH nanocomposites: Rheology and flammability

A melt blending method was used to prepare ABS/clay and ABS-g-MAH/clay nanocomposites. Cone calorimeter and advanced rheological extension system (ARES^©) were employed to measure flammability and dynamic rheological properties. The main aim is to establish a relationship between the clay network structure and flammability properties of polymer nanocomposites. From the results of dynamic rheological measurements, it was found that the clay network structure was formed in ABS-g-MAH/clay nanocomposites, which strongly affected the flammability properties of the nanocomposites. The clay network improves the melt viscosity and results in restraint on the mobility of the polymer chains during combustion, which leads to significant improvement of flame retardancy for the nanocomposites.