Abstract
Ultrasound-assisted melt-extrusion method (USME) is a high-quality process used to produce polymeric compounds with an adequate homogeneous dispersion. This study evaluates white-color films of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) prepared using TiO2 masterbatch obtained by ultrasound-assisted melt-extrusion at variable frequencies (USME-VF). LLDPE with three different melt-flow indices (2, 20 and 50 g/10 min) were used as the polymer matrix. The films were obtained from the dilution of masterbatches of LLDPE (melt-flow index = 2) at a concentration of 7 wt% TiO2. The morphology, pigmentation, TiO2 reactivity, and the mechanical stability of the films were assessed. The masterbatch compounds were evaluated by melt-flow index (MFI) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The contrast ratio, yellowness index and mechanical properties of films were also measured. The properties of whiteness and elongation at break improved in the films prepared using masterbatches with higher dispersion. Though the reactivity of the TiO2 particles increased during accelerated aging, it did not affect the elongation to rupture. The yellowness index was moderately affected in films that included TiO2 particles processed using USME-VF.
Highlights
In order to achieve numerous specifications of packaging functionality, additives and inorganic fillers in polymers have been incorporated
This study aims to analyze the dispersion effect of TiO2 pigment in the preparation of white masterbatch by implementing the Ultrasound-assisted melt-extrusion method (USME)-VF and studying the influence of TiO2 particles after masterbatch dilution on both pigmentation and photodegradation on linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) polymer composites
The melt-flow index (MFI) value for TiO2 masterbatch concentrates obtained by ME and ultrasound-assisted melt-extrusion at variable frequencies (USME-VF) was analyzed and compared to the raw LLDPE, respectively
Summary
In order to achieve numerous specifications of packaging functionality, additives and inorganic fillers in polymers have been incorporated Properties such as gas barrier, antistatic, antimicrobial, optical, among others have been reported to achieve good appearance [1,2,3]. Even the value and quality performance of products can be primarily attributed to color characteristics [5] Optical properties such as color, brightness and hiding power typically depend on pigment chemistry, concentration and dispersion in a matrix or substrate. These factors are decisive in the interaction of pigments with wavelength of visible light [6]. Titanium dioxide (TiO2 )—with a rutile crystal structure—is considered the most competent white pigment because its pigmentation strength is maximized by its high refractive index (2.74) [7] and by the lack of absorption of visible light [8]
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