Preparation and Thermal and Morphological Characterization of Nanocomposite Based on Phenol Formaldehyde – Nylon Thermoset IPN

Interpenetrated network (IPN) of Phenol formaldehyde (PF) and nylon was prepared using sequential IPN preparation method. The Concentration of Nylon was varied in the IPN from 5%, 10% to 15% concentration level with respect to the phenol used. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results showed a uniform dispersion of nylon phase in the PF network. Nanoclay was added at 4% concentration level with respect to the phenol to all the IPN compositions and also to the pure PF. SEM studies confirmed the uniform dispersion of the nanoclay in the IPN matrix. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) studies have also been done. Addition of clay showed improvement in the thermal stability of the IPNs.