Characterization And Properties Of Linear Low Density Polyethylene/Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) Blends

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Date
2011-08
Authors
Muhammed Nordin, Razif
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Publisher
Universiti Sains Malaysia
Abstract
The effect of blend ratio, crosslinking agent, electron beam irradiation and the combination of irradiation and crosslinking agent on the properties of linear low density polyethylene/poly(vinyl alcohol) blends were investigated. The crosslinking was prepared using maleic acid and 3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate as crosslinking agents and dicumyl peroxide (DCP) as initiator, while trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA) was crosslinking agent chosen for irradiation process. Blends were prepared by melt mixing in an internal mixer, Haake Rheomix Polydrive at temperature and rotor speed of 150ºC and 50 rpm respectively. Blend systems covered various compositions viz. 90/10, 80/20, 60/40, 50/50 and 40/60, of LLDPE/PVA (php/php). Results showed that the tensile properties decreased with increases in PVA content, these were due to incompatibility between LLDPE and PVA components. Results on differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and morphology revealed that the blend were immiscible at all blends ratios. Meanwhile, chemical crosslinking through maleic acid and 3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate has enhanced the compatibility, thermal stability and tensile properties of LLDPE/PVA blends. The formation of crosslinking was proved by FTIR and quantified with gel content. The presence of crosslink’s significantly alters the morphology of LLDPE/PVA blends. These findings follow the theory which stated that the crosslinking formation enhanced the compatibility of immiscible blends.
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Keywords
Characterization And Properties , Linear Low Density Polyethylene/Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) Blends
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