Effect of surface treatment and particle shape on rheological, structural and utility properties of PLAorganoclay nanocomposites

Polymer nanocomposites using layered silicates have been investigated for over 20 years in order to prepare new materials for specific applications [1, 2]. One of theseapplications includes reduction in permeability, which is achieved by parallel arrangement of the clay layers in thepolymer matrix. Formation of such a structure is dependent onpolymer matrix, surface modification of the clay,concentration of the clay in the polymer and processingconditions. Reduced permeability is required in many applications at the packaging market, in particular for the storage of the oxygen-sensitive beverages (e.g. juice, beer, wine).