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Reinforcement of polyolefins‐based nanocomposites: combination of compatibilizer with high shear extrusion process
Author(s) -
Bouaziz Amira,
Massardier Valérie,
Louizi Molka,
Jaziri Mohamed
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
polymer engineering and science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.503
H-Index - 111
eISSN - 1548-2634
pISSN - 0032-3888
DOI - 10.1002/pen.24120
Subject(s) - materials science , composite material , polypropylene , elastomer , compatibilization , nanocomposite , plastics extrusion , extrusion , polyethylene , natural rubber , polymer blend , vulcanization , shear rate , ethylene propylene rubber , polymer , shear (geology) , copolymer , rheology
The structure and properties of polypropylene (PP) and ethylene propylene copolymer (EPR) blends filled with nanosilica have been investigated. The nanocomposites were prepared via direct melt mixing using high shear corotating twin screw extruder. The effects of the process as well as adding amaleated‐Polyethylene MAPE compatibilizer were assessed by morphology studies, thermal analysis and mechanical testing. From SEM and TEM investigations, a separate dispersion of filler and rubber in the PP matrix prevails in the PP/EPR/SiO 2 systems. Encapsulation of the filler particles into the elastomer takes place when MAPE is used, promoting filler/polymer interactions and resulting in a simultaneous improvement in stiffness and toughness. Interestingly, the results indicated that high‐shear processing is an effective method to improve the dispersion of the EPR phase and fillers through the matrix. The dispersed phase droplet size was reduced with the increase of the shear rate by varying the screw rotation speed from 300 to 800 rpm, which induces a high shear stress exerted onthe materials. To sum up, what is expected from an efficient compatibilization‐process association is the reduction of the dispersed elastomer domains characteristic size, their stabilization by creation of an interphase and thus, enhanced mechanical properties. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:2328–2338, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers