PVC/ABS blends: Thermal and morphological studies

摘要

Poly(vinyl chloride) and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene terpolymer blends made via melt blending were studied with respect to property enhancement, morphology, and physicochemical characterization. Blends were characterized by various thermal, morphological, and spectro-chemical methods of analysis. Two distinct glass transitions were recorded by differential scanning calorimetry. This suggested the need for a compatibilizer. Thermal decomposition behavior of blends was analysed by thermogravimetric analysis. Incorporation of ABS had marginal effect on rate, chemistry, and overall pattern of decomposition of poly(vinyl chloride). Interaction of polar functional groups in the two blend components was monitored by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy technique. Scanning electron micrographs indicated uniform dispersion of rubber particles in the matrix, but poor interfacial adhesion between the two phases was noticed.