Microscopic measurement of the degree of mixing for nanoparticles in polymer nanocomposites by TEM images

摘要: For polymer nanocomposites, the small size of fillers makes it difficult to analyze degree mixing quantitatively and often requires direct assessment via transmission electron microscopy (TEM). To date, qualitative comparisons indirect measurements by measurement certain properties are most common methods. Better methods characterize in nanocomposites would aid studies investigating effect process conditions on behavior. Alumina/PET identical composition, but with different degrees were prepared using a batch mixer. evaluation respect both dispersion distribution, three techniques applied compared. TEM particle density was useful for dispersion, did not adequately while Morisita's index gave poor results due wide range effective sizes. Both ranked samples differently compared visual observation. In contrast, skewness calculated quadrat method produced consistent rankings, found be comparing quantifying mixing. Although proper selection particular concentration, from suitable as standard nanocomposites. The usefulness verified second set twin screw extruder showing potential application this technique development quality control commercial nanomanufacturing processes. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.