INFLUENCE OF MIXING CONDITIONS AND COMPOSITION ON THE PHASE STRUCTURE AND PROPERTIES OF THERMOPLASTIC OLEFIN BLENDS

摘要

Morphology and mechanical properties of blends of polypropylene/ ethyelene-propylene-diene terpolymer (PP/EPDM) were studied in relation to mixing conditions, and blend composition. The number average diameter (Dm) of dispersed elastomer was found to depend not only on the blend composition but also on the mixing temperature and effective shear rate. The number average diameter increased with the increase in viscosity ratio, η_(EPDM)/η(PP). Mixing temperature was found to be an over riding determinant of flow properties and morphology. All key properties including impact strength, flex modulus, weld line strength, and paint adhesion were influenced both by the composition and morphology. It is demonstrated that good dispersion in blends with mismatched viscosities can be achieved by simultaneous increase in temperature and speed.