The aim of this study is to compare the efficiency of silane modification of bentonite using a microwave system with the conventional modification method carried out without the application of microwave energy. We focus on identifying the differences in the chemical and structural properties of the modified bentonites and their effect on the performance in polymer composites. Microwave modification of bentonite was carried out using the Milestone flexiWAVE microwave system, which provides precise control over process parameters such as temperature, time and intensity of microwave radiation. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis and thermogravimetric analysis were used to characterize the prepared samples. Subsequently, these samples were incorporated into a polymer matrix and subjected to comparative analysis. In addition, the rheological and mechanical properties of the resulting polymeric materials were also evaluated in this work to determine to what extent the modification method affects the interaction between the filler and the polymer matrix, and thus the final properties of the composites.

Acknowledgement: This work was supported by the Science Grant Agency - project VEGA 1/0265/24 and by the Operational Program Integrated Infrastructure, co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund by the project: Advancement and support of R&D for "Centre for diagnostics and quality testing of materials" in the domains of the RIS3 SK specialization, Acronym: CEDITEK II., ITMS2014+ code 313011W442.