| Abstract: | The morphological structure and mechanical properties of isotactic polypropylene (PP)/zinc‐neutralized sulfonated ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (Zn? SEPDM)/CaCO3 blends were studied. PP/Zn? SEPDM/CaCO3 blends were prepared through two different sequences. A: Blending PP with Zn? SEPDM, then adding CaCO3; B: Blending Zn? SEPDM with CaCO3, then adding PP. The blending sequence has substantial influence on the mechanical properties. SEM micrographs and X‐ray photoelectron spectrometry indicate that the CaCO3 filler is encapsulated by Zn? SEPDM in those blends prepared through sequence B, which caused an extra increase of impact strength. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 91: 1635–1640, 2004 |
