Polyolefin-nanocomposites with special properties by in-situ polymerization

Exceptionally strong polyolefin nanocomposites are synthesized by in-situ polymerization using soluble metallocene/methylaluminoxane (MAO) as catalysts in a two-step process. First, the soluble metallocene/MAO or other single site catalysts are absorbed on the surface of the nanofillers. Then by addition of ethene or propene, a polyolefin film is formed, covering the nanoparticles, layered silicates, or fibers. The resulting polyethylene and polypropylene nanocomposites are characterized by better physical and chemical properties such as stiffness, gas barrier properties, degradation temperatures, and crystallization rates. They show better mechanical properties than materials produced by mechanical blending. The thickness of the polyolefin can be controlled by the pressure of ethene or propene and by the polymerization time. Carbon fibers and carbon nanotubes are covered with isotactic or syndiotactic polypropylene. Because of the hydrophobic character of the carbon surface, the polymer is drawn on the fiber. This leads to a reinforced combined polymer with special properties. The crystallization temperature is 10 degrees C higher and therefore the crystallization rate up to 20 times faster than that of pure syndiotactic polypropylene. The form stability increases by 100% if 3 wt-% of carbon nanotubes are incorporated.