The effects of organoclay on the morphology and mechanical properties of PAI/clay nanocomposites coatings prepared by the ultrasonication assisted process.

In this research, solvent based polyamide - imide (PAI)/clay nanocomposites were prepared successfully using the solution dispersion technique. With the assistance of the ultrasonic wave, the effect of the ultrasonic wave time on the microstructure of 3wt% PAI/C20A nanocomposite (NC) was investigated. Then, the best ultrasonic parameters were selected and the effects of the concentration of Cloisite 20A (C20A) (1, 3 and 5wt% C20A) on the microstructure and mechanical properties (adhesion, hardness, flexibility, wear and impact) of NCs were investigated. The PAI, C20A and nanocomposites (NC)s were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), and Wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD). The results showed that the sample with 1 and 3wt% C20A had better mechanical properties, as compared to the pure PAI and the 5wt% NC.