Tough Polymer Alloys via Chemically Controlled Morphology
Abstract
The use of functionalized polymers that react at the interfaces in polymer blends to form block or graft copolymers during melt processing has been examined. The graft copolymers function as "compatibilizers" that strengthen the interface and provide a powerful means of controlling blend phase morphology. Consequently, this approach provides an effective means of controlling the properties of multi-phase polymeric materials. Most of the work involved the use of polyamides, polyesters and polycarbonates as one component in the blend. The other component was a reactive elastomer, an ABS material, a core-shell impact modifier, or polypropylene. The end group configuration of the polyamide was shown to be an important consideration in morphology development. Functionalized additives are most efficient when both physical and chemical interacts are optimized. A variety of approaches for producing super-tough polyamide blends with low ductile-brittle transition temperatures are described. Cavitation of the rubber phase was shown to be an important part of the toughening mechanism in certain cases.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 15, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA358243
Entities
People
- D. R. Paul
Organizations
- University of Texas at Austin