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Compatibilization of Natural Fibers with Synthetic Polymers Using Triblock Copolymers as Coupling Agents
Author(s) -
Tingaut Philippe,
Henry Nathan,
Rials Tim,
Harper David,
Dadmun Mark
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
macromolecular chemistry and physics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.57
H-Index - 112
eISSN - 1521-3935
pISSN - 1022-1352
DOI - 10.1002/macp.200700594
Subject(s) - copolymer , materials science , styrene , compatibilization , polymer chemistry , polymer , toughness , composite material , polymer blend , chemical engineering , engineering
The ability of triblock copolymers of MMA and S to improve a wood/PS interface has been evaluated using the ADCB test. Two symmetric triblock copolymers were tested: an MMA centered triblock SMS and a styrene centered triblock MSM. The fracture toughness ( G c ) of the interface has been evaluated as a function of the copolymer thickness. G c was improved with both copolymers but depended on copolymer composition. At low copolymer thickness, the MSM was the strongest compatibilizer, while the SMS was more efficient in the saturated regime. An in‐depth characterization of the interface indicated that a lack of affinity between the MSM and PS is responsible for the different behaviors observed.