Abstract: A process for modification, in particular for surface modification of an organophilic clay material, encompassing the following steps: a) provision of a dry, pulverulent, organophilic clay material (component a); b) provision of at least one additive (component b) for modification of component a); c) intensive mixing of components a) and b) in a high-shear mixing assembly, where no water or solvent is added or used for addition of component b).

Abstract: The invention relates to a composition, in particular a pulverulent master batch, comprising at least one nanoclay composed of a swellable inorganic layered material which has been modified by at least one siloxane component and by at least one non-anionic organic compound which has at least one aliphatic or cyclic radical having from 6 to 32 carbon atoms. The pulverulent master batch can result in a homogeneous mixture with a polymer powder and can be used as such. Also, a polymer master batch can be produced by compounding of the pulverulent master batch with a carrier polymer. The pulverulent master batch or the polymer master batch can be used as filler or in filler systems in various polymer compositions.

Abstract: A polymer composition is provided that comprises a polymer and a synergistic flame retardant additive combination which comprises a nano-clay and a second filler. The second filler may be a material with known flame retardant properties, an inert filler or a combination of the same. The preferred nano-clay is Cloisite, the preferred second filler is aluminium trihydroxide. The presence of this flame retardant additive combination in polymers increases the strength of the char that forms during combustion. The formation of a strong char creates a barrier to ignition of the underlying material, for example electrical cables that have been provided with a coating of the polymeric composition.