Compatibilizing Effects on the Phase Morphology and Thermal Properties of Polymer Blends Based on PTT and m-LLDPE

Summary Morphology and thermal characteristics of poly (trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT)/ metallocene linear low-density polyethylene (m-LLDPE) blends with different amounts of a terpolymer based on glycidyl methacrylate (GMA), employed as a possible compatibilizer, were systematically examined. DMTA results show two distinct peaks for all neat blends associated with each phase. Melt crystallization degree of both phases in all the blends was observed to be reduced compared to pure components, except for that of PTT-rich phase in those blends with PTT as the matrix which slightly increases. Addition of the terpolymer to the system is found to effectively reduce the droplet size of the dispersed phase and increase phase adhesion. Also it increases the crystallinity of PTT in the system with PTT as the matrix. The influence of the compatibilizer is ascribed to the chemical interaction of PTT functional end groups with GMA functionalities. The efficiency of the terpolymer as a compatibilizer beyond 5 wt% content decreases which can be ascribed to the interface saturation and formation of micelles in the bulk phases.