Because of the dispersion at the nanometer level, polymer-clay nanocomposites exhibit superior properties in comparison with pure polymer or conventional composites; this includes properties such as barrier properties , improved thermal stability and flame retardancy. The outstanding properties of polymer-clay nanocomposites are achieved at a much lower volume fraction, compared with conventional composites. Polymer-clay nanocomposites can be processed using common techniques, such as extrusion and casting, which are superior to the cumbersome techniques used for the conventional composites. Hence, polymer-clay nanocomposites have important potential commercial value.
