Improved morphology and mechanical properties of UPA6/TPEE blends by reactive compatibilization

Abstract

In this study, series of blends were prepared by blending unextracted polyamide-6 (PA6) and thermoplastic ester elastomer (TPEE) in certain ratios. The morphologies, thermal behaviors, and mechanical properties of blends have been investigated. Scanning electron microscope results revealed that the morphology of blends was improved significantly when the content of TPEE is less than 50 wt%. Tensile fracture surface images confirmed reactive compatibilization and stress-induced crystallization in blends. The effect of unextracted PA6 content on the elasticity and tensile strength of blends was also studied, and higher elongation rate at break and breaking strength could be achieved when the content of TPEE is ≥50 wt%. The most interesting finding in this study is that the glass transition temperature for rubber phase of blends shifts to lower temperature and decreases with the increase of unextracted PA6 content at certain ratios range.