The role of Nanoclay type and content in promoting microstructure and properties of nylon6 fiber

The effect of organically modified Nanoclay on the morphology, crystallization behavior, microstructure development and mechanical properties of polyamide6 (PA6) was investigated. Nanocomposites were produced by extruding mixtures of organically modified montmorillonite and molten nylon6 using a twin screw extruder. The polyamide6 Nanocomposites were melt-spun with different organoclay types and contents to produce monofilaments. The Nanocomposite fibers were characterized by X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and universal tensile testing. The addition of a small amount of Nanoclay was sufficient to improve the thermo-mechanical properties of the polyamide6 hybrid fibers. Organic modifier and content of organoclay played a significant role on the dispersion and enhancing properties for nylon6/montmorillonite Nanocomposite fibers. Exfoliated Nanoclay morphology was realized using a wide angle X-ray diffraction technique when Cloisite 30B at low organoclay content had used.