Investigation of the Effect of EVA and Nanoclay on LDPE-LLDPE Packaging Film Properties- Part 1: Mechanical and Morphological Studies

This study, investigates the effects of addition of EVA and nanoclay on mechanical and morphological properties of traditional LDPE-LLDPE packaging films. The results of mechanical tests showed that the nanocomposites containing 3 phr clay nanoparticles and a matrix containing 50% of EVA provide optimum properties. XRD patterns of the nanocomposites also showed that the Exfoliated/Intercalated structure achieved. XRD results were confirmed by TEM images. Scanning electron micrographs show that the morphology of the blends containing 40% and higher of EVA, changed from the Matrix-Disperse structure to the Co-Continuous structure. Addition of EVA has led an improvement of the toughness properties in these blends and nanocomposites; On the other hand, addition of clay nanoparticles, increase the stiffness properties of the blends and nanocomposites. The impact and tear resistance properties of these nanocomposite films have also investigated