Polyolefin nanocomposites containing inorganic components show improved properties in various applications. A common route to nanocomposites is their preparation from composite nanoparticle dispersions. Usually, aqueous dispersions from heterophase polymerization are employed. However, for the case of polyethylene, free-radical emulsion polymerization requires high pressures and catalytic aqueous polymerizations have become available more recently only.<br/><br/>We report on the synthesis of aqueous, Pickering stabilized dispersions of polyethylene. The added inorganic particles effectively stabilize the polyolefin particles formed and also support particle formation during the aqueous polymerization reaction. The morphology and composite nature of the particles were confirmed via transmission electron microscopy and spectroscopic methods.

In-situ stabilization of polyolefins in aqueous systems by inorganic particles

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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