Clay-Epoxy Nanocomposites: Current State-of-the-Art Research and Perspectives

This chapter reviews the current state of preparation and characterization of epoxy nanocomposites containing natural or organo-modified clays. In fact, the incorporation of either intercalated or exfoliated nanoclays in epoxy networks allows improving the overall behavior of the thermosetting matrix, particularly referring to its thermal and thermo-oxidative stability, barrier properties toward different gases, flame retardant behavior, and mechanical features, among a few to mention. Besides, these enhancements can be achieved by using very low amounts of nanoclays (i.e., usually below 10 wt.%), which turn out to be very effective, even below 5 wt.% when a fully exfoliated morphology is obtained in the resulting nanocomposite. This chapter reviews and discusses the current advances, highlighting some still open challenges and future possible developments.