Evaluation of mechanical, rheological and thermal properties of poly(trimethylene terephthalate)(PTT)/polythylene blend using compatibilizer based on carboxylate and Ionomer for automotive application

Abstract

Polymer blending is one way for development of new materials with excellent properties. In this study, poly (trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT) and polyethylene blended with maleic anhydride grafted high-density polyethylene (MAH-g-HDPE) and ethylene-meth acrylic acid neutralized sodium metal (Na- EMAA), were used as compatibilizers. The blends were prepared by a twin-screw extruder with different ratios of polymers (PTT/HDPE and PTT/LLDPE: 80/20 and 60/40) and compatibilizers (0, 0.1, 0.5, 1, and 5 phr). The blends were characterized on mechanical, rheological, thermal, and morphological properties. By adding the compatibilizers, Young’s modulus and tensile strength, impact strength and viscosity of the blends increased and smaller dispersed droplet size micrographs were observed. For the types of compatibilizers, MAH-g-HDPE and Na-EMAA, effected on mechanical properties. The melting and crystallization behavior of the blends also depended on type of compatibilizer.