Qualitative assessment on the surfactant traces from the organically modified nanoclay containing polymer nanocomposite

Abstract

Traces of quaternary ammonium salt from dispersed nanoclay in PA6/6.6 polymer nanocomposite may have some potential toxicological effects that could pose a risk to human health. Modified nanocomposite system was produced by masterbatch melt extrusion process while water-assisted nanocomposite was prepared via direct melt extrusion process. Investigations were conducted by hyphenated thermogravimetric analysis coupled with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (TGA-FTIR). Small traces of surfactant alkyl ammonium ions in the nanocomposite can be found in the masterbatch and nanocomposite.