Preparation of polyHIPE nanocomposites: Revealing the influence of experimental parameters with the help of experimental design approach

摘要

Controlling the morphology and physical properties of poly(high internal phase emulsion)s (polyHIPEs) is critical for the development of well-defined porosity with improved mechanical properties for industrial applicability. Therefore, in this study, experimental design methodology was used to prepare polystyrene based polyHIPE nanocomposites. A surface modified nanoclay was used to reinforce the chalky and brittle polystyrene, and the effect of nanoclay loading was investigated studiously. Emulsion stability has not been compromised due to the presence of modifier groups on the nanoclay surface. A total of 36 samples were produced according to the experimental design matrix. The relationship between the emulsion preparation conditions and final polyHIPE properties including cavity size, interconnected pore size, compression modulus, specific surface area, average pore volume, skeletal density, and foam density were determined by using a statistical software for a 95% confidence level (alpha = 0.05). In this way, in addition to deriving the empirical model equations for each property, the mutual and synergistic interactions of experimental parameters were also determined.