Toughening and Compatibilization of Acrylonitrile–Butadiene–Styrene/Poly (Ethylene Terephthalate) Blends Using an Oxazoline-Functionalized Impact Modifier

Abstract

An oxazoline-functionalized core–shell impact modifier was synthesized between aminoethanol and acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene high rubber powder. According to the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy test, the nitrile groups were partially converted into oxazoline groups successfully. The oxazoline-functionalized acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene high rubber powder was used as an impact modifier for acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene/poly(ethylene terephthalate) blends. The differential scanning calorimeter and rheological tests demonstrated that poly(ethylene terephthalate) was partially miscible with acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene, because the oxazoline groups of oxazoline-functionalized acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene high rubber powder reacted with the end groups of poly(ethylene terephthalate). The results of scanning electron microscopy indicated that the morphology of acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene/poly(ethylene terephthalate) blends with proper oxazoline-functionalized acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene high rubber powder content was improved significantly. The best mechanical properties were achieved, When 6 wt% oxazoline-functionalized acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene high rubber powder was added into acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene/poly(ethylene terephthalate) blends.