Effect of processing method on the structure and properties of HDPE/EAA/LDHs nanocomposites

High-density polyethylene/ethylene-acrylic acid copolymer/layered double hydroxides (LDHs) nanocomposites were prepared by the methods of one-step extrusion and twice extrusion in this paper. The structure and properties of the nanocomposites were also studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TG), and the cone calorimeter. The results of XRD, SEM, and TEM analyses demonstrated that the method of twice extrusion gave the LDHs a higher level of exfoliation within the matrix compared with the method of one-step extrusion. The DSC and TG analysis revealed that the crystalline property and the thermal stability of the nanocomposites could be improved by the method of secondary extrusion. The cone calorimeter test showed that the method of secondary extrusion could improve the flame retardant property of the nanocomposites to some degree.