Thermal stability and flammability were evaluated by
thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and cone calorimetry measurements, respectively. The presence
ofmodified MMT at 5% loading resulted in significant improvement in thermal stability compared
to the virgin polymer. Effective activation energies for mass loss were determined via a model-free
isoconversional approach from TGA data obtained under N2 and under air. The additives served to
raise the activation energy, with a more significant impact observed under pyrolysis conditions. The
onset temperature ofdeg radation and temperature ofmaxim um decomposition rate are increased,
while the peak heat release rate and mass loss rates are significantly reduced in the presence of
three ofthe modified clays. No reduction in the total heat released is observed