Effects of Modified MMT on Mechanical Properties of EVA/MMT Nanocomposites and Their Foams

In this study, nanocomposites of poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) with two kinds of organically modified montmorillonite (OMMT) were prepared by melt intercalation. Their structures and mechanical properties were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and tensile test respectively. Especially, foaming of these nanocomposites mixed with chemical blowing agent was carried out through compression molding. Influences of OMMT on foaming ratio and mechanical properties were investigated by density test, tensile test and tear test. Results revealed that both kinds of OMMT with proper content increased tensile strength and Young's modulus of nanocomposites without a compromise of elongation at break. For foaming, OMMTs apparently improved foaming ratio and in particular, one of them can improve tear strength, tensile strength, Young's modulus and elongation although the density was decreased.