Crystallization, structure and properties of PP-b-PE block copolymer

Abstract

In recent years, a commercialized polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) block copolymer has been synthesized using chain-shuttling polymerization, but its molecular structure and properties are still limitedly understood. In this work, we analyzed the chain composition, mechanical properties, and structural transformations occurring during the deformation of commercial PP-PE block copolymer obtained via chain-shuttle technology. The chain composition and crystallization properties of PP-PE block copolymers obtained by chain shuttling technique were analyzed using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), temperature-rising elution fractionation (TREF), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) techniques. The sample has a mass ratio of 49:51 of PE chains to PP chains, but the crystallinity of the two components differs significantly. The PP displays limited crystallinity, indicating short PP chain segments. Some PE sequences are incorporated into the PP matrix as random copolymers, resulting in elastomeric behavior. We investigated the In-situ structural changes of crystals during stretching using synchrotron radiation 2D X-ray diffraction/scattering. In the elastic deformation region, the strain has a significant influence on the orientation of PE crystals but has little effect on the orientation of PP crystals. After the yield point, the strain-induced PE crystal failure resulting in a decrease in stress. In the strain hardening region, the orientation of PE induces recrystallization, forming a layered structure with tensile orientation. At the same time, the PP crystals are disoriented under the action of strain until they break. The results from this work provide significant insight into the design of PP-PE block copolymer products to meet the performance requirements needed for engineering applications.