Study on compatibilization-crosslinking synergism in PVC/LDPE blends

Influences of nitrile rubber (NBR, acrylonitrile content 33.5 – 36.5 wt.-%) on the structure and mechanical properties of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC)/low density polyethylene (LDPE) blends and its synergism with crosslinking agent have been studied. The addition of NBR to the blend is accompanied by a decrease in domain size and improvements in mechanical properties of the blend. When dicumyl peroxide (DCP) is added to the blend together with NBR, good synergism is caused and mechanical properties will improve dramatically. It is concluded that NBR can promote the phase dispersion of PVC and LDPE and their interfacial adhesion. Then, the probability of DCP existing at the interface will increase and more co-crosslinked products will form. Therefore, compatibilization and crosslinking are both exerted sufficiently.