Low Density Polyethylene Blends Research Articles

Tuning Barrier Properties of Low-Density Polyethylene: Impact of Amorphous Region Nanostructure on Gas Transmission Rate

This work focused on determining the factors that are of key importance in the oxygen barrier properties of low-density polyethylene (LDPE). It has been shown that, depending on the type and amount of the low-molecular-weight compound (tetracosane, paraffin wax, paraffin oil) introduced into the LDPE matrix, it can contribute to the improvement or deterioration of barrier properties. Tetracosane and paraffin wax incorporated into the LDPE matrix caused a reduction in oxygen permeability parameters compared to neat polyethylene. As their content increased, the barrier properties of the samples towards oxygen also increased. A completely opposite effect was achieved with paraffin oil. The results of comprehensive studies provide evidence that in the case of LDPE blends, two mechanisms are responsible for changing/controlling their transport properties. The first mechanism is associated with changes in the molecular packing in the interlamellar amorphous regions, while the second is related to the crystallinity of the samples. In cases where there are no changes in crystallinity, the density of the amorphous phase becomes the decisive factor in barrier properties, as clearly shown by results assessing chain dynamics.

Effect of Low-Density Polyethylene and Crumb Rubber Blends with Different Ultraviolet Aging Degrees on the Storage Stability of Bitumen Based on Molecular Dynamics Simulation

Effect of Low-Density Polyethylene and Crumb Rubber Blends with Different Ultraviolet Aging Degrees on the Storage Stability of Bitumen Based on Molecular Dynamics Simulation

Enhancing thermal energy storage properties of blend phase change materials using beeswax.

This study aims to use beeswax, a readily available and cost-effective organic material, as a novel phase change material (PCM) within blends of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and styrene-b-(ethylene-co-butylene)-b-styrene (SEBS). LDPE and SEBS act as support materials to prevent beeswax leakage. The physicochemical properties of new blended phase change materials (B-PCM) were determined using an X-ray diffractometer and an infrared spectrometer, confirming the absence of a chemical reaction within the materials. A scanning electron microscope was used for microstructural analysis, indicating that the interconnection of the structure allowed better thermal conductivity. Thermal gravimetric analysis revealed enhanced thermal stability for the B-PCM when combined with SEBS, especially within its operating temperature range. Analysis of phase change temperature and latent heat with differential scanning calorimetry showed no major difference in the melting point of the various PCM blends created. During the melting/solidification process, the B-PCMs possess excellent performance as characterized by W70/P30 (112.45J.g-1) > W70/P20/S10 (94.28J.g-1) > W70/P10/S20 (96.21J.g-1) of latent heat storage. Additionally, the blends tend to reduce supercooling compared to pure beeswax. During heating and cooling cycles, the B-PCM exhibited minimal leakage and degradation, especially in blends containing SEBS. In comparison to the rapid temperature drop observed during the cooling process of W70/P30, the temperature decline of W70/P30 was slower and longer, as demonstrated by infrared thermography. The addition of LDPE to the PCM reduced melting time, indicating an improvement in the thermal energy storage reaction time to the demand. According to the obtained findings, increasing the SEBS concentration in the composite increased the thermal stability of the resulting PCM blends significantly. Despite the challenges mentioned earlier, SEBS proved to be an effective encapsulating material for beeswax, whereas LDPE served well as a supporting material. Leak tests were performed to find the ideal mass ratio, and weight loss was analyzed after multiple cycles of cooling and heating at 70°C. The morphology, thermal characteristics, and chemical composition of the beeswax/LDPE/SEBS composite were all examined. Beeswax proves to be a highly effective phase change material for storing thermal energy within LDPE/SEBS blends.

Fused deposition modeling of polyethylene (PE): Printability assessment for low-density polyethylene and polystyrene blends

There is a global emphasis on recycling and reuse of plastic waste. Despite constituting over one-third of the world's annual plastic production, only 10 % of polyethylene is recycled. This study explores the use of fused deposition modeling (FDM) to enable the recycling of industrial waste of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) blended with expanded polystyrene (EPS). Two LDPE/EPS ratios (50/50 and 70/30) were investigated, and two types of styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS) rubber were incorporated as compatibilizers. The mechanical, rheological, thermal, and morphological properties of these blends were analyzed to assess their printability. Results indicate that the use of SEBS enhances the mechanical properties, thermal stability, and morphological uniformity of the blends. Particularly, malleated SEBS exhibited superior compatibilizing ability, fostering strong interactions at the LDPE/EPS interface. The best blend, based on printability assessments, was the 50/50 LDPE/EPS ratio with a 5 wt% malleated SEBS. Consequently, this blend was extruded into feedstock filaments, and it was successfully printed via FDM. The proposed blends are anticipated to perform effectively in various applications and serve as a foundation for future development of wear-resistant materials. The outcomes of this study present a novel approach for upcycling LDPE waste while promoting sustainable FDM practices.

Evaluation of the properties of bio-asphalt derived from waste cooking oil and low-density polyethylene through the pyrolysis process

The aim of this study is to prepare a bio-asphalt for flexible pavement construction using a fixed-bed pyrolysis reactor. This method involves incorporating waste cooking oil (WCO) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) as feedstock materials. Through this study, an attempt has been made to make use of waste materials and promote the use of environmentally friendly binders in sustainable road construction. The pyrolysis experiment was conducted at different temperatures, varying from 250 °C to 500 °C for different blends of waste cooking oil (WCO) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE), i.e., 1:0, 3:1, 1:1, 1:3, and 0:1, respectively. At a temperature of 350 °C, the pyrolysis process is more effective for converting various blends of waste cooking oil (WCO) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) into bio-asphalt. The maximum bio-asphalt yield of 82 wt% was reported for the 1:3 blend at a temperature of 350 °C. The elemental analysis of an equal mass of waste cooking oil (WCO) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) reported a carbon content of 83.93 wt%, a hydrogen content of 13.29 wt%, and a lower oxygen content of 2.55 wt%. The Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrography (GC-MS) analysis indicated the presence of chemical compounds such as pentadecane, heptadecane, dodecane, cyclopentylpropyl, and hexacosene in the 1:1 blend. The thermogravimetric and derivative thermogravimetric analyses indicate that the 1:1 blend and 1:3 blend can withstand temperatures around 473 °C and 475 °C, respectively. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis showed the presence of alkane, alkene, ester, and other aromatic compounds. Based on this present study, it has been noted that the chemical composition of a 1:1 blend of waste cooking oil (WCO) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE)-based bio-asphalt contains similar chemical compositions as asphalt binder, and it can be used as a modifier for conventional asphalt binder.

Water Absorption Effect on Tensile Properties of Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) Blend with Recycle Acrylonitrile Butadiene Rubber Gloves (NBRr) in Saline Water

Nowadays, waste acrylonitrile butadiene rubber glove (NBRr) has been studied for use in building materials. The primary limitation of using rubber in construction was its low water absorption capacity. The goal of this research is to investigate the effect of Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) on water absorption and the temperature differential (20 and 30 oC) of NBRr blender composite in distilled water (DW) and saline water (SW). The rubber glove has been blended with heated two-rolled mills at 120 °C. The substance had been compressed using a hot press. Five samples had already been created. The sample was formed like a dumbbell. The five samples were immersed in DS and SW for 30 days at temperatures of 25°C and 35°C, respectively. The result shown the tensile strength, elongation at break Eb and Young’s modulus of LLDPE/NBRr blend decrease. The tensile properties of saline water lower compare to distilled water due to corrosion and degradation. Saline water contains dissolved salts, which can contribute to corrosion and degradation of the materials. The presence of salts can accelerate chemical reactions, leading to the degradation of the polymer matrix and the rubber phase. This degradation can weaken the material and reduce its tensile strength. Moreover, as the temperature increases, the thermal energy also increases, causing the polymer chains to gain more kinetic energy. This increased energy disrupts the intermolecular forces and reduces the overall molecular interactions within the material. Weaker intermolecular interactions lead to a decrease in tensile strength. As conclusion, hydrothermal effect tensile properties when temperature increase tensile properties decrease. distilled water has better diffusion than saltwater. LLDPE/NBRr blend was discovered that both distilled and salt-water absorption resulted in a decrease in tensile properties.

Double Percolation of Poly(lactic acid)/Low-Density Polyethylene/Carbon Nanotube (PLA/LDPE/CNT) Composites for Force-Sensor Application: Impact of Preferential Localization and Mixing Sequence.

This study explores the enhancement of electrical conductivity in polymer composites by incorporating carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into a co-continuous poly(lactic acid)/low-density polyethylene (PLA/LDPE) blend, creating a double percolation structure. Theoretical thermodynamic predictions indicate that CNTs preferentially localize in the LDPE phase. The percolation threshold of CNTs in the PLA/LDPE/CNT composites was 0.208 vol% (5.56 wt%), an 80% reduction compared to the LDPE/CNT composite, due to the double percolation structure. This thermodynamic migration of CNTs from PLA to LDPE significantly enhanced conductivity, achieving a 13.8-fold increase at a 7.5 wt% CNT loading compared to the LDPE/CNT composite. The localization of CNTs was driven by thermodynamic, kinetic, and rheological factors, with viscosity differences between PLA and LDPE causing dense CNT aggregation in LDPE. Initial contact of CNTs with PLA reduced aggregation, allowing PLA to infiltrate CNT aggregates during melt-mixing, which influenced the final morphology and electrical conductivity. These findings provide new insights into the fabrication of conductive polymer composites for force sensor applications.

Efficiencies of Thermophilic Bacteria Species in Degrading Biodegradable Low-density Polyethylene Mixtures in Aquatic Ecosystems

The study examined the efficiencies of bacteria thermophiles responsible for the depolymerization of biodegradable Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) blends in two aquatic environments to suggest model bacteria species that could be used for reducing the accumulation of single-use LDPE in both marine and freshwater ecosystems. Each of the biodegradable LDPE, polyethylene, and cellulose was placed in respirometry jars filled with 500 mls of the freshwater and marine water respectively in a randomized design of 4 by 2 by 3 following the American Standard Testing and Materials (ASTM) procedure. To identify the bacteria species, bacterial isolation was done using pour plate and streak methods. The bacteria species were identified by morphological, biochemical, and molecular methods. The thermophilic bacteria species were confirmed by sequencing to be Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas species among others. The results revealed that the bacteria isolates on LDPE were responsible for the biodegradation processes of the LDPE. This study concluded that Bacillus cereus and Pseudomonas species have the bioremediation potentials to break down single-use biodegradable Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) in aquatic environments within six (6) months.

High quality 3D printing of low-density polyethylene blends considering the softening effect of polyolefin elastomer

Polyethylene (PE) is one of the most widely used thermoplastics in the polyolefin family. Despite its numerous applications in the industry, particularly in packaging, 3D printing with PE has been a significant challenge that has received little attention. The main obstacles to successful 3D printing with PE are high shrinkage, weak adhesion to the print bed, and weak interlayers. This paper addresses this problem by introducing Polyolefin Elastomer (POE) as an additive in the 3D printing process. Three different POE-LDPE compounds with varying LDPE weight percentages (90%, 70%, and 50%) were 3D printed and analyzed for their mechanical and microstructural properties. The POE and LDPE were blended using the melt mixing method, and the resulting POE-LDPE granules were directly used as input for the FDM machine. The 3D-printed samples were then subjected to DMTA, tensile, compression tests, and SEM imaging. The DMTA results showed that the glass transition temperature of all three samples fell within the range of 71°C to 78°C. Increasing the POE content and decreasing the LDPE amount from 90% to 50% led to a decrease in the storage modulus. In terms of the tensile test results, it was observed that reducing the LDPE amount and increasing the POE content had a toughening effect on the samples, improving their formability and elongation from 1566% for POE-90wt% LDPE to 2112% and 2829% for POE-70wt% LDPE and POE-50wt% LDPE respectively. However, the tensile strength decreased with an increase in the POE amount. For POE-90wt% LDPE, the tensile strength was 14.06 MPa, and for POE-90wt% LDPE, it was just below 13.96 MPa. The compression test revealed that the addition of POE weakened the yield strength of the samples. SEM images demonstrated that the printability of the 3D-printed POE-LDPE samples decreased as the LDPE amount decreased and the POE amount increased. The images also revealed single-phase and miscible blends. These findings suggest the potential emergence of a new, affordable, biocompatible, and recyclable raw material for 3D printing.

Self-nucleation (SN) and successive self-nucleation and annealing (SSA) as powerful tools to determine the composition of polyolefin post-consumer recycled blends

For the incorporation of post-consumer recycled (PCR) resins in mechanical recycling processes, it is crucial to determine their composition accurately. The blends of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) in PCR film resins pose a challenge due to their varying ratios. This study introduces a quantitative method that employs the successive self-nucleation and annealing (SSA) technique to analyze commercial PCR LLDPE/LDPE blend compositions. Our method is an efficient way to assess these blend compositions, offering an improved analysis compared with traditional methods. We established a series of calibration curves based on the SSA final melting trace to validate our approach. The SSA technique's efficacy was compared with the robust NMR method, showing that SSA can predict LLDPE contents in the blends with comparable accuracy. We demonstrate that the SSA methodology is an accurate and reliable technique for assessing complex waste streams, thereby facilitating the optimization of recycling processes and advancing the goals of sustainable materials management.

Influence of Temperature and Blending Ratio on Product Yield for Co-gasification of Torrefied Palm Kernel Shell (TPKS) and Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)

This study investigated the product yields produced from the co-gasification of torrefied palm kernel shell (TPKS) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE). Prior co-gasification, PKS was undergo pre-treatment process at different temperature. The optimum parameter for torrefaction was found at 250 oC for 60 min reaction time with 4.89 wt.% moisture content and 10.48 wt.% fixed carbon. Thus, the result indicated that TPKS a suitable fuel feedstock for further thermal conversion. Then, TPKS and LDPE were gasified at different temperature and blending ratio for 60 min reaction time. The results showed that, Co-gasification is significantly influenced by temperature. A higher gasification temperature improves the gasification rate by increasing carbon conversion. By varying temperature from 600 to 1000 oC, the tar production dropped significantly from 49.61 to 35.03 wt.%, while the gas yield grew significantly from 25.88 to 45.94 wt.%. However, as temperature increased from 800 to 1000 oC, tar yield increased from 26.58 to 35.03 wt.%. Meanwhile, char yield decreased from 24.50 wt.% to 19.02 wt.% when the temperature from 600 to 1000 oC. For the effect of blending ratio, through blending of TPKS and LDPE, the gas and char yield increase, while tar decrease with increase torrefied TPKS ratioAdditionally, it was found that the highest gas yield with low tar and char yield was obtained from the co-gasification of TPKS and LDPE at 50:50 blending ratios produce the than another blending ratio. Therefore, based on the effect of temperature and blending ratio on product yield shows that the optimum parameter to produce maximum gas yield with minimum tar and char yield are at 50:50 (TPKS: LDPE) blending ratio at 800oC for 60 minutes reaction time. The gas analysis exhibited in increasing H2 composition when the reaction time increase for TPKS: LDPEcompared than UnPKS:LDPE.

Investigating the effect of compatibilizers on environmental stress cracking resistance in polypropylene/low density polyethylene blends

The present study focuses on the effect of octylphenoxy poly(ethyleneoxy)ethanol (IGEPAL CA 630) on the environmental stress cracking resistance (ESCR) of blends of polypropylene (PP) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) at different weight fractions without and with the addition of two compatibilizers, corresponding to styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS) copolymer and styrene-ethylene-butylene maleate (SEBS-g-MA). Compression molding was used after mixing the melt in a Brabender internal mixer to create the blends. ESCR of the blends was determined by exposing the blends to a solution of IGEPAL CA 630 the presence of stress. Mechanical (tensile) and thermal properties are extracted to evaluate the effect of adding the compatibilizers SEBS and SEBS-g-MA to the blend. In the environmental stress cracking (ESCR) tests, the time to failure increases with increasing PP content, despite PP's greater resistance to ESCR than LDPE. The addition of SEBS-g-MA to the blend significantly improves the flexibility and ESCR performance of PP/LDPE blends with specific weight fractions.

Enhancing the physical properties of recycled low-density polyethylene and virgin low-density polyethylene blend using octanoate starch

Increasing global consumption of low-density polyethylene leads to more polymeric waste and challenges solid waste management. Therefore, the process of recycling or mixing recycled low-density polyethylene (RLDPE) with the same virgin low-density polyethylene (VLDPE) and enhancing the properties of this blend by adding different amounts of bioplastic such as Octanoate starch (OCST) is a good contribution to getting rid of plastic waste and obtaining new materials. This paper mixed the 20, 30 and 50 wt.% from RLDPE with VLDPE to determine the homogeneous blend. Also, 30, 40, and 50 wt. % from OCST were blended with homogeneous as a 20:80 RLDPE: VLDPE to obtain a new hybrid blend containing bioplastic. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) results showed the high surface roughness of the film RLDPE: VLDPE after adding the OCST. The tensile strength, elastic modulus, and hardness of the 20:80 RLDPE: VLDPE blend were 13.0 ± 1.467 MPa, 0.08 ± 0.016 MPa, and 42.3 ± 2.32 Shore A, while the tensile strength, elastic modulus, and hardness of the 12:48:40 RLDPE: VLDPE: OCST were 14.3 ± 1.626 MPa, 0.1 ± 0.032 MPa, and 50.1 ± 2.78 Shore A respectively. On the other hand, the Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) indicated that the strong bands at 1746 cm−1, 2856 cm−1, and 2927 cm−1 indicated stretching deformation of the ester carbonyl group and the methyl and methylene groups of OCST with blend polymers, respectively. The thermal properties as melting point, heat energy consumption, and heat flow difference increased from 122.52 to 123.73°C, −389.41 to −144.43 (mJ), and −77.88 to −28.89 (J/g) when the OCST content increased from 20:80 RLDPE: VLDPE to 12:48:40 RLDPE: VLDPE: OCST. Thermal decomposition led to the formation of functional groups such as hydroxyl and carbonyl on LDPE baskets and an increase in the carbonyl index after adding OCST to the RLDPE: VLDPE blend. The best hybrid blend was 12:48:40 RLDPE: VLDPE: OCST.

Influence of Temperature and Blending Ratio on Product Yield for Co-gasification of Torrefied Palm Kernel Shell and Low-Density Polyethylene

This study investigates the product yields produced from the co-gasification of torrefied palm kernel shell (TPKS) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE). Prior co-gasification, PKS was undergo pre-treatment process at different temperature. The optimum parameter for torrefaction was found at 250 °C for 60 min reaction time with 4.89 wt. % moisture content and 10.48 wt.% fixed carbon. Thus, the result indicated that TPKS a suitable fuel feedstock for futher thermal conversion. Then, TPKS and LDPE were gasified at temperature of 600, 800 and 1000 °C and blending ratio of 10:90, 50:50, 90:10 (TPKS:LDPE) for 60 min reaction time. Based on the findings found that, temperature plays an important role in co-gasification. Higher gasification temperature increases the carbon conversion which improves gasification rate. By varying temperature from 600 to 1000 °C, the gas yield increased whilst tar yield decreased sharply. For the effect of blending ratio, through blending of TPKS and LDPE, the gas and char yield increase, while tar decrease with increase torrefied TPKS ratio. Furthermore, it was observed that the product yields obtained from the co-gasification of TPKS and LDPE at 50:50 blending ratios produce the highest gas yield with low char and tar yield than another blending ratio. Therefore, based on the effect of temperature and blending ratio on product yield shows that the optimum parameter to produce maximum gas yield with minimum tar and char yield are at 50:50 (TPKS:LDPE) blending ratio at 800 °C for 60 minutes reaction time.

Correlation of structure, rheological, thermal, mechanical, and optical properties in Low Density Polyethylene/Linear Low Density Polyethylene blends in the presence of recycled Low Density Polyethylene and Linear Low Density Polyethylene

AbstractPost‐industrial low‐density and linear low‐density polyethylene blown films are mechanically recycled for reutilizing in the production of blown films for packaging applications. This process enables the production of films with lower cost and similar properties while preserving the environment and lowering the amount of waste material disposed of. The mechanical recycling process results in the production of recycled pellets. This process includes chopping, washing, drying, and reprocessing. Mixtures of these recycled materials and their virgin form with various concentrations are shaped into blown films with inherent 70 and 30 wt% loadings for low‐density polyethylene and linear low‐density polyethylene components, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results of the recycled material show no contamination or chemical reaction with other materials. Gel permeation chromatography is carried out on the virgin and recycled low‐density polyethylene and linear low‐density polyethylene, and the results indicate the occurrence of chain session and crosslinking during the recycling process. The decline in the thermal properties of the samples, seen from the differential scanning calorimetry results, indicates the presence of crosslinks. The effect of structural changes caused by the recycling process on the rheological properties is studied. The miscibility of the blend components is evaluated by Cole–Cole plots and then further proved by Han and Van Gurp–Palman curves. Mechanical properties display an upturn following the presence of the crosslinkes. A decline in the optical properties in the films caused by the refraction of light by the crosslink structure in the film bulk and on the surface is evident.Highlights LDPE and LLDPE were recycled according to the circular economy approach Blown films containing virgin and recycled LDPE and LLDPE were produced Chain scission and crosslinking as a result of recycling were studied Rheological, thermal, mechanical, and optical properties were studied

Experimental analysis of blended nanocomposites processed using compression molded microwave process

Microwave irradiation has emerged as a versatile and efficient method for synthesizing polymer nanocomposites, offering advantages such as selectivity, speed, and effectiveness in heating materials. This study explores the blending of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and polypropylene (PP) with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using microwave processing. The nanocomposites were characterized for their mechanical properties through tensile and fracture toughness tests. Results indicate that LDPE/CNT blended with PP/CNT pellets exhibited improved Young’s modulus and fracture toughness, while LDPE/CNT blended with PP/CNT powder showed enhanced stiffness and fracture toughness. The critical stress intensity factor ( KIC) increased with higher proportions of PP in both cases, signifying improved crack resistance. XRD and SEM analyses confirmed enhanced crystallinity and proper bonding between polymers and CNTs. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of microwave processing in producing nanocomposites with enhanced mechanical properties, offering a promising avenue for engineering applications.

Simultaneous Effect of EBR on LLDPE and PDMS Rubber Blends and Its Nanocomposites for Cable Applications.

The impact of electron beam radiation on the blend of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) rubber at different doses from 50 to 300 kGy has been investigated. The irradiated sheets were examined for their morphology, gel content, thermal stability, melt behavior, and electrical and dielectric properties. The radiation treatment has reduced both the melting point and crystallinity of base polymers and their blends because of chain scission. As observed, 100 kGy doses of irradiated blend and 3 wt % of loaded nanosilica composite showed comparatively good thermal stability. The phase morphology of the LLDPE: PDMS rubber blend showed a honeycomb-like design before irradiation because of two-stage morphology, which prominently changed into a solitary stage after electron beam irradiation. This is because of intermolecular cross-link arrangement inside the singular parts, just like cross-linking development at the interface. From the AQFESEM study, it is observed that the stacking of nanosilica particles within the blend matrix is greatly reduced after electron beam irradiation. The addition of nanosilica within the blend increased the electrical conductivity and dielectric permittivity. The dielectric breakdown strength has been observed to be the highest for 3 wt % loaded nanocomposite and its irradiated sample. The result indicates that the nanocomposite can be utilized for high-voltage cable applications in indoor and outdoor fields.

Morphologies, structures, and properties on blends of triblock copolymers and linear low-density polyethylene

Abstract Focusing on the study of the phase separation behavior of triblock copolymer and linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) systems helps to understand the influence of microstructure on the properties of poly(vinylcyclohexane)-b- poly(ethylene)-b-poly(vinylcyclohexane) (PVCH-PE-PVCH/LLDPE) blends. We prepared a series of blends of LLDPE and PVCH-PE-PVCH and explained their compatibility from the microstructure. The research findings indicate that despite having similar block compositions, PVCH-PE-PVCH with a higher molecular weight exhibits significantly stronger phase separation and crystallization ability compared to PVCH-PE-PVCH with lower molecular weight. In PVCH-PE-PVCH/LLDPE blends, the addition of 10 %, 20 %, and 30 % LLDPE induces earlier crystallization and crystal phase separation of polyethylene (PE) fragments. In addition, compared to the lower molecular weight of PVCH-PE-PVCH, the higher molecular weight of PVCH-PE-PVCH exhibits a higher tendency for independent crystallization and shows significant crystal phase separation during the cooling crystallization process when blended with LLDPE. The PE segments in the lower molecular weight of PVCH-PE-PVCH can more easily enter the nanoscale domain of LLDPE. Impact fracture electron microscopy also reveals better compatibility between the lower molecular weight of PVCH-PE-PVCH and LLDPE compared to the higher molecular weight of PVCH-PE-PVCH. Furthermore, the blends of lower molecular weight of PVCH-PE-PVCH and LLDPE exhibit a greater growth rate in elongation at break.

Theoretical and experimental investigation of the compatibilization agent contribution to the interactions of polymer blend (PP/LDPE): Thermal, morphological, and DFT insights

In this research, we looked at the impact of (styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene) SEBS 5 % wt and (maleic anhydride grafted SEBS) SEBS-g-MA 5 % wt as compatibilizer agents of polypropylene (PP)/low-density polyethylene (LDPE) blends. Compression molding was used after mixing the melts in a Brabender internal mixer to create the blends. Scanner electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to characterize the structural and surface behaviors of the blends and their morphology. FTIR analysis showed a weak and broad absorption peak at 1650 cm−1 for PP, LDPE and their blend, which signals the presence of carbonyl groups, and therefore oxidation of the blend. Upon addition of SEBS (styrene ethylene/butylene styrene) and SEBS-g-MA (SEBS grafted with maleic anhydride), the absorption of the carbonyl group decreases, so the peak at 1650 cm−1 becomes smaller. SEM analysis showed an improvement in the morphology and interfacial adhesion of the mixtures with the use of SEBS and SEBS-g-MA. These results suggest that the use of compatibilizers can lead to improved properties for PP/LDPE blends in various applications. Molecular modeling was also used to infer the effects of the compatibilizing agent on the properties of PP-LDPE blends. According to molecular dynamics simulations, the inclusion of SEBS dramatically increases the binding interaction energies for the 3PP/3PE and 3PP-3PE-1SEBS-g-MA systems, going from 440 kcal/mol to 880 kcal/mol, respectively. Density functional theory calculations further confirm the compatibilization role of SEBS-g-MA on the blend. In particular, Quantum molecular descriptors and the density of states demonstrate SEBS-g-MA's involvement as an intermediate in promoting PP and LDPE compatibility. Overall, our results suggest that SEBS-g-MA is a potential PP-LDPE compatibilizer.

LDPE/PCL nanofibers embedded chlorhexidine diacetate for potential antimicrobial applications

In this study, we described the process of developing antimicrobial nanofibers using a solution-based electrospinning technique. The nanofibers were composed of a 40:60 blend of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and polycaprolactone (PCL), loaded with chlorhexidine diacetate (CHD).The diameter of the nanofibers was measured for LDPCL (235 nm), but it changed to 148, 194, and 325 nm for LDPCL-CHD 1%, 3%, and 5%, respectively. The hydrophilic properties of the nanofibers were significantly improved by incorporating CHD. Also, the contact angle was reduced from 116 ± 5° to 37 ± 2°. The CHD was released from the nanofibers by an initial immediate release and then by extended-release. The released CHD from the nanofibers was found to effectively reduce the formation of biofilms when exposed to microorganisms such as S. aureus and E. coli compared to the control group (LDPCL). The drug-loaded nanofibers were found to be non-cytotoxic when incubated with L929 fibroblast cells for the duration of 24 and 72 h. The study findings suggest that antimicrobial nanofibers have potential applications in preventing implant-related infections caused by (S. aureus and E. coli).