Melt blending is the most commonly used method in
composite preparation due to its efficiency and operability.
In the process, the polymer and the inorganic filler
(i. e., silica) are sheared in the melt at a temperature
equal or greater than the melting point of the polymer.
Under suitable conditions the material exfoliates and
disperses to the desired extent. This technology is very
versatile and can be applied to various polymers.28–31 It is
also possible to add swelling and compatibilizing agents
in order to improve the exfoliation and reach a better
adhesion between the two major components.