High performance long chain polyamide/calcium silicate whisker nanocomposites and the effective reinforcement mechanism

PA1012/calcium silicate whisker nanocomposites with contents of whisker ranging from 10 wt% to 40 wt%, are prepared by twin screw extruder without any additions of coupling agent. The effect of whisker on the matrix is analyzed by the studies of morphology, the mechanical properties, water absorption and thermal stabilities. SEM micrographs obviously demonstrate, even under the high filler content of 40 wt% and without surface treatment, calcium silicate whisker can be homogeneously dispersed in polyamide, directly leading to the enhanced mechanical properties. The mechanism of higher efficiency of reinforcement is needle-like shape whisker, having access to be intercalated, and mutual affinity caused by hydrogen bonding interaction between carbonyl group in polyamide chain and hydroxyl group in whisker surface. Both aspects attach matrix with excellent stress-transfer properties. In addition, with the assistance of whisker, the nanocomposite favors an improved water absorption as well as thermal stability, which is intimately associated with physical performance.