Effect of LDPE-g-MA as a compatibilizer for LDPE/PA6 blend on the phase morphology and mechanical properties

Abstract

The study covered the synthesis of low density polyethylene-graft-maleic anhydride (LDPE-g-MA) and investigated its influence as a compatibilizer for LDPE/polyamide 6 (PA6) blend. LDPE-g-MA characterized by FTIR spectroscopy. Melt blends of LDPE and PA6 which contain 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 phr of LDPE-g-MA were prepared using a Brabender Plasti-corder and characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The static mechanical, water absorption and dynamic mechanical properties of the LDPE/PA6 blends were reported. The study deduced the optimum content of LDPE-g-MA in LDPE/PA6 blends is 8 phr for morphological properties, flexural strength, tensile strength, flexural modulus, E-modulus, impact strength, water absorption percentage and dynamic mechanical properties. The results demonstrated the possibility of using the LDPE/LDPE-g-MA/PA6 (80/8/20) blend in various industrial applications for LDPE such as the manufacture of products made of plastic and in packaging goods.