Poly(2-ethyl hexylacrylate) (PEHA)/silicate composites were synthesized by the emulsion polymerization of ethyl hexylacrylate (EHA) in the presence of sorbitol and the composites were analyzed to be of nano order. The nanocomposites so prepared were shown to be intercalated by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and infrared spectroscopy. The thermal stability of the nanocomposites was found to be appreciably increased. These nano-composites are potentially suitable for novel uses such as pressure-sensitive adhesives and superabsorbents. The biodegradability and superabsorbency of these nanocomposites were evaluated for their commercial potential. (C) 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.