New acrylic nanocomposites consisting of methyl methacrylate (MMA)/n-dodecylmethacrylate (LMA) copolymers and intercalated layered silicates were prepared. The silicates were based upon bentonite which was rendered organophilic by ion exchange with N,N,N,N,-dioctadecyl dimethyl ammonium ions. Morphological, thermal, mechanical, and optical properties were examined as a function of both organophilic bentonite and LMA content. Addition of LMA improved the compatibility between the layered silicate and the acrylic matrix, thus promoting bentonite intercalation and formation of anisotropic laminated silicate nanoparticles of an average diameter of 18 nm, average length of 450 nm, and interlayer distance of 4.8 nm, as determined by WAXS, TEM, and AFM. Addition of 2-10 wt % of intercalated layered silicate accounted for improved stiffness/toughness balance, higher glass temperature, and enhanced thermal stability, with respect to the properties of the corresponding MMA/LMA copolymer. As a result of the addition of LMA, translucent acrylic nanocomposites were obtained. (C) 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.