GMA-Based Emulsion Templated Macroporous Foams: Tailoring the Mechanical Properties by Nanoclay Loading

Glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) based low density macroporous foams (polyHIPE foams) were synthesized by high internal phase emulsion (HIPE) templating. Strengthen foams were produced by polymerizing the continuous phase of HIPEs consisting of GMA, 1,3-buthandiol dimethacrylate (BDDMA) and nanoclay. In order to ensure the compatibility of between nanoclay and the monomers surface modified nanoclay containing 25-30 wt. % methyl dihydroxyethyl hydrogenated tallow ammonium was used. The composite foams were prepared by incorporating up to 5 wt.% of nanoclay particles. Compression modulus of the composite foams was improved by ca. 60% as compared to neat polyHIPE foam. The specific compression modulus and specific compressive strength were also significantly improved by increasing the amount of nanoclay loading.