| abstract |
An embodiment of the present invention is a nanocomposite comprising a clay and an elastomer comprising at least C2 to C10 olefin derived units; wherein the elastomer also comprises functionalized monomer units pendant to the elastomer. Desirable embodiments of the elastomer include poly(isobutylene-co-p-alkylstyrene) elastomers and poly(isobutylene-co-isoprene) elastomers, which are functionalized by reacting free radical generating agents and unsaturated carboxylic acids, unsaturated esters, unsaturated imides, and the like, with the elastomer. The clay is exfoliated in one embodiment by the addition of exfoliating agents such as alkyl amines and silanes to the clay. The composition can include secondary rubbers such as general purpose rubbers, and curatives, fillers, and the like. The nanocomposites of the invention have improved air barrier properties such as are useful for tire innerliners and innertubes. |