Polymer-latex clay nanocomposites represent a rational alternative to conventional inert fillers for property enhancement.This effect has been attributed to the potentially high aspect ratio and intercalation/exfoliation characteristics.In this paper we report the mechanical,solvent sorption behaviour and air permeability properties of prevulcanized NR latex films incorporated with 5% w/w of inert nanosized filler in comparison with the layered silicate variety (sodium fluorohectorite and sodium montmorillonite).The films were characterized by TEM which showed evidence of tactoid and individual platelets distributed in the case of the fluorohectorite whereas the montmorillonite appeared to be embedded between the interstitial spaces of the structured domains of the latex films.As expected the solvent,air permeability and tear resistance of the films were significantly improved with incorporation of the layered silicate compared to the inert filler.
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