Effect of electron‐beam irradiation on poly(vinyl chloride)/epoxidized natural rubber blend: dynamic mechanical analysis

The irradiation‐induced crosslinking in 50/50 poly(vinyl chloride)/epoxidized natural rubber (PVC/ENR) blend was investigated by means of dynamic mechanical analysis. The influence of trimethylolpropane triacrylate on the irradiation‐induced crosslinking of PVC/ENR blends was also studied. The enhancement in storage modulus and T_g with irradiation dose indicated the formation of irradiation‐induced crosslinks. This is further supported by the decrease in tan δ_max and loss modulus peak. The compatibility of the blend was found to be improved upon irradiation. The Fox model was used to provide a further insight into the irradiation‐induced compatibility in the blend. Scanning electron microscopy studies on the cryofracture surface morphology of the blends as well as the homopolymer have been undertaken in order to gain more evidence on the irradiation‐induced crosslinking. © 2001 Society of Chemical Industry