How can nanohybrids enhance polyester-sepiolite nanocomposites properties?

PCL/sepiolite (nano)composites are prepared by melt blending in a twin-screw mini-extruder, and PCL/sepiolite nanohybrids are synthesized by ROP of e-CL. The nanohybrids have been used as masterbatches and dispersed in a commercial PCL matrix. Composites with 3 wt.-% nanofiller were prepared and characterized thermally, mechanically, and morphologically. Sepiolite addition has a profound effect on the mechanical properties of the PCL/sepiolite nanocomposites. Sepiolite disperses well in PCL, which leads to a significant increase in Young's modulus. The use of a PCL nanohybrid as masterbatch further improves the stiffness but also the toughness of the material in the elastic range.