Coordinator:  Prof. DSc Liliya Minkova
           Tel:  +359 2 9793668
           e-mail:minkova_AT_old.polymer.bas.bg

Funded by: National Science Fund
Grant agreement: Project TK01/0110
Duration: 3 years

Abstract: The aim of the project is the preparation and the characterization of new polymer nanocomposites on the base of polyolefins such as polyethylene high density, polyethylene low density and polypropylene. In the case of non-polar polymers like polyolefins it is necessary to use appropriate compatibilizers in order to achieve nanocomposites with exfoliated and/or intercalated silicate fillers.
The characterization of the uncompatibilized and compatibilized composites will be performed by modern research methods: electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), polarization optical microscopy, DSC, thermogravimetrical analyses, dynamical mechanical thermal analyses, wide- and small X-ray diffraction, microhardness measurement, rheological and mechanical analysis, investigation of the transparency and the flame resistance.
The apparatuses for characterizing the polymers are: optical microscopes - Reichert Zetopan, NU-2 and Leica DLPM (IP); differential scanning calorimeter Perkin Elmer DSC 7 (IP); ultraviolet spectrometers - Specord UV-VIS and Specord M-42 (IP), electron microscope and X-ray diffractometer (Institute of Physical Chemistry), apparatus for determination of limiting oxygen index (IP).
It could be expected that the new nanocomposites will demonstrate better characteristics for the elastic modulus, tensile strength, thermal stability, flame resistance, permeability of gases and solvents, melt viscosity, dimensional stability and etc. Thus, they will demonstrate several advantages in comparison with the conventional composites on the base of polymer matrixes.
The project will be carried out within collaboration with Institute of Polymers-Slovak Academy of Sciences and CNR of Pisa, Italy.