The invention provides for processes for preparing a nanocomposite
compositions including the steps of: contacting a multifunctional
intercalant including a cationic moiety separated from an anionic moiety
by at least 1 carbon, with a clay at a temperature and for a period of
time sufficient to produce an at least partially intercalated clay; and
contacting the at least partially intercalated clay with a functionalized
interpolymer including one or more functional groups, at a temperature,
and for a period of time sufficient to produce the nanocomposite
compositions. Cured nanocomposite compositions, and articles including
such nanocomposite compositions are also provided.