Elastomer nanocomposites with incorporated process oils

Abstract

This disclosure is directed to nanocomposite compositions that are suitable for air bladders, innertubes, innerliners and other desirable air-retention articles. In particular, this disclosure is directed to compositions that include the nanocomposite, the nanocomposite made in such that its air-retention properties are much improved over what is known, while maintaining desirable elasticity and processability. In a particular aspect, an air-retention article such as an innerliner if formed by first contacting a desirable elastomer, especially a functionalized poly(isobutylene-co-p-methylstyrene) elastomer, with one or more layered fillers such as a clay described further below, and also contacting one or more processing aids, and one or more solvents to form an nanocomposite composition. The nanocomposite composition is then precipitated to form the solid nanocomposite composition which can be dried and further blended with other suitable ingredients such as, for example, curative agents, thus forming an innerliner suitable for a tire or other article.