Investigation of the Effect of Nanoclay on Morphology and Properties of Weak Base Anion Exchange Resins

Poly(Methylacrylate-Divinylbenzene) copolymer and poly(Methylacrylate-Divinylbenzene)/clay nanocomposites were prepared by suspension polymerization method and then were functionalized using diethylene triamine to obtain weak base anion exchange resins. For neat coplymer, SEM images showed spherical beads; and for polymer/clay nanocomposites, SEM images showed some deformed beads, and XRD patterns showed intercalation morphology. Measurements of ion exchange capacity of the resins showed decreased ion exchange capacity in the case of clay containing resins. Mechanical strength of the resins was examined using a ball-mill test at swollen state. SEM observations after ball-mill tests showed improved mechanical strength for nanocomposite resins.