Structure and properties of isobutylene-isoprene rubber/swollen organoclay nanocomposites prepared by shear mixing

A new approach was developed to prepare high-performance isobutylene-isoprene rubber/swollen organoclay nanocomposites by shear mixing. Compared with traditional melt compounding method, better dispersion of nanoclay layers in rubber matrix was verified through transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The nanocomposites also exhibit significantly improved mechanical properties and gas barrier property. As a mechanism, the molecules of organic swelling agent play a vital role in accelerating the diffusion and intercalation of the matrix molecules.