Compatibilizer-Phase Morphology-Mechanical Property Relationships of Multicomponent Heterophase Polymer Blends

Abstract

The compatibilization of various three- and five-component blends of polyethylene, polystyrene, polypropylene, poly(methyl methacrylate) and polyvinylchloride has been investigated. The ultimate mechanical properties of such multi-component blends are related to their phase structures, which, in turn, are influenced by the nature of the compatibilizer used. Thus, in compatibilizing such blends, a properly chosen compatibilizer will result in a desired phase structure having improved mechanical properties, whereas another compatibilizer may lead to an undesirable phase structure with poor mechanical properties. The latter can result even though the compatibilizer is effective in promoting a finer dispersion and improving the interfacial adhesion. For blends with an encapsulation-type phase structure, the interface(s) between the encapsulating shell and the matrix is usually the primary interface(s) influencing the mechanical properties of the system, whereas for a blend with a separation-type phase structure, all of the matrix/particulate interfaces may be important.