Preparation of poly(ε-caprolactone)/clay nanocomposites by microwave-assisted in situ ring-opening polymerizationa

PCL/clay nanocomposites were prepared by microwave-assisted in situ ROP of epsilon-caprolactone in the presence of either unmodified clay (Cloisite((R)) Nal(+)) or clay modified by quaternary ammonium cations containing hydroxyl groups (Cloisite 30B). This PCL showed significantly improved monomer conversion and molecular weight compared with that produced by conventional heating. An intercalated structure was observed for the PCL/Cloisite Na+ nanocomposites, while a predominantly exfoliated structure was observed for the PCL/Cloisite 30B nanocomposites. Microwave irradiation proved to be an effective and efficient method for the preparation of PCL/clay nanocomposites. [GRAPHICS] [GRAPHICS] in situ reduction, a large number of metal-based functional materials can be prepared. PVP is alkaline, and thus capable of catalyzing the sol-gel process to generate an inorganic shell. Furthermore, pre-formed nanoparticles can also be absorbed by the shell through specific interactions. The PS core is not infiltrative during synthesis, and hollow rings can be derived after the polymer templates are removed. [GRAPHICS] b